Bible Studies

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"Bad dog! That is a no!" The words echoed through the house and a puppy's squeal pierced the air. "Are you ever going to learn?"

The puppy had arrived into the household several weeks earlier and the established rules and guidelines that everyone, including the cat and older dog, adhered to had come under constant attack. He was adorable and loving, quickly working his way into the hearts of all but he just didn't seem to understand the guidelines. What was wrong with playing in the cat box or eating the cat food? What was wrong with chewing on a pillow or digging a hole? What was wrong with nipping the hands that were petting you? Isn't that what puppies do?

But guidelines had to be established. There were rules to follow and limitations to be set - a pathway to holiness to learn. A changed and transformed life was required. The puppy could not understand the purpose of these guidelines but he was beginning to realize the brunt of inappropriate actions and the feelings of disfavor. At times the pathway seemed long and strenuous and he frequently became lost. Often it appeared that he would never see the light and accept the standards to this new life-style. He stubbornly held onto his desires and would constantly stray in search of new treasures and experiences. He wanted life under his own terms.

And then the voice, once again, broke into his play…

"Fabian! I said no! Leave that pillow alone. Bad dog!" And once again he was carried away from his desire and was banished into the cage for another time out. He yelped his displeasure and dug at the cage door to get out but his cries and efforts went without gain.

Eventually, he would be released and when he was, the tender hands that picked him up erased all feelings of loneliness and despair. Loving hands of warmth and tender care would lift and caress him. This was the best part. These hands were the source of so much joy. These hands gave him hope and purpose. This is where he wanted to be at all times - embraced in love and forgiveness.

The puppy nestled in his owner's embrace and promised to himself never to stray again. He resolved that he would do nothing to fall short of the behavior that was expected. He would strive to do good so he could reside forever in this loving embrace.

But look… a shoe! What a wonderful toy.

Closing Prayer:

Loving and Forgiving Father: There is a pathway to holiness. We can read about these guidelines throughout the Bible. We can look upon the Beatitudes in Jesus' sermon and see the kingdom of heaven revealed. We can discuss and debate these standards among ourselves. We know which of your commandments are the greatest. It seems simple. All we need to really do is to love you and to love one another. "Do this and the kingdom of heaven is assured." But then we slip. Our focus turns and we find ourselves back again in the embrace of selfishness. Other things become more important and the next thing we know our goals at living holy lives have been forgotten. How will we ever measure up? How will our transformation into holiness every take place? And then we see the Cross and we are reminded of your love. You have forgiven us once and for all times. Our sins of selfishness will not get in the way of your love. Lord, in the midst of our lives as we strive to become the disciples you are calling us to be, we pray that we never loose focus of the Cross. In everything we do, this is where our salvation rests. In all that we are, this is where our hope resides. Thank you for your love and grace - undeserving as it is. Lift us into your kingdom so that your glory will be revealed to the entire world. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior we pray, Amen.

Inspired by Psalm 15 and Matthew 5:1-12

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