Love and wholeness

I have been struck afresh at how fascinating it is that a dog can love us.  Our puppy's abject devotion is so freely given--where does she get it?  She is a creation of God and thus is part of the Kingdom of Love, designed to both give and receive love.  When we love her back in the ways she needs it--food, affection, recognition, praise, play and interaction--her happiness and contentment knows no bounds.  Her angst and tension disappear and with her cup full, she's off to chew a bone, take a nap, whatever.

It's an amazing thought to follow through.  How different are we?  Not at all.  We were designed by Love to be loved and give love, which gives both us and others the wholeness we need.  Giving love, in all its forms and manifestations, really, is our fundamental purpose in life.  We give a smile, an encouraging word, we meet a need, listen (truly listen!), or share a gift and so are giving a piece of the daily wholeness someone else needs.  Isn't this what our wonderful Lord does for us all day, every day?  Expressions of His love to bring us wholeness and life.

It's a sobering thought to realize that every angry word, act of impatience or selfishness, or withholding of what another needs is actually breaking the Law of Love--and not participating with God's intent for every being he made.

Ouch.  All this from my puppy.  And yet what a different cast this can put on my day if I will embrace it and do it!