I KNOW What Love Is …

He’ll be 91 on his next birthday. His eyesight is diminished, his hearing selective. He moves like the old man that he is, yet he’s still got that occasional spark and sporadic burst of energy that belies his years. He naps frequently and sometimes sleeps so deeply, I panic. I check his breathing regularly, watching for the subtle rising and falling of his chest.

I am his most cherished friend. He relies on me for everything, from daily sustenance and medication, to the occasional visit for a checkup. It both worries and saddens me knowing his days are numbered; our time together, waning. Our relationship has a statute of limitations that will likely expire within the next few years – give or take.

He weighs all of 16 pounds fully fed and dripping wet. HE is a Jack Russell Terrier who’s spent nearly the whole of his 13 years as my little buddy. He is my most loyal companion and I am his human.

Wiley, is his name and every day he sticks to me like glue, even follows me to the bathroom. When I’m working on the computer, he crowds my chair, just needing the comfort of my touch. At night, he hogs my space, sleeping curled at my side. Even in slumber, he needs the reassurance of my presence, fearful I might leave him. It feels good to be needed and to know the depth of that kind of love.

The older I get, I’m finding that this little dog is teaching me that I have those same needs … only my need is for God. I long to feel God’s constant, continual presence in my life; that reassurance of knowing that my Savior is never far from me – especially in the craziness of life these days. I need my Lord’s touch.

Just as my old dog relies on me to meet his every need, I imagine our Savior longs for us to rely on Him for our every need. I imagine as well, that our Heavenly Father loves that WE need HIM to be our everything.

Yes, he may be just a dog, but my dog has taught me more about unconditional love than many of my human relationships. In the words of the incomparable Forrest Gump, “I may not be a smart man … but I know what love is.”

I know that love is … a Savior who cares so much for us … that He created something as wonderful as a dog. And just like a dog … the Savior will stick to you like glue … but only … if you ask Him.

Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the ocean depths. You care for people and animals alike, O LORD. Psalm 36:6 (NLT)

Blessings in Christ,
Kathy K.

Author: Kathy Kurlin

I am a wife, mother, grandmother and published author of three books. My true passion is to share the Gospel through the written word. I may not be a Pulitzer Prize winning author, but God tells us to be faithful with "little things," ... so at my Lord's pleasure ... I use my "little writing gift" to write for Him.

8 thoughts on “I KNOW What Love Is …”

  1. We lost our 13 year old Jack Russell “Ruby” 14 July 2014. The Hole is still there, but God really gave us comfort and hope and so many lessons about Love, even through that wonderful jewel. Here is a “Doggie Quote” for you: “If I could give you one thing in life, I would give you the ability to see yourself through my eyes. Only then would you realize how special you are to me.” (Unknown).
    Be blessed and enjoy every moment with your companion, your unfailing love gift from God Himself to you.

  2. Thanks Lorraine for the lovely quote. And even though you lost your Ruby nearly three years ago, I’m sorry for your loss. There is not statue of limitations on pain or grief. KK

  3. Amen! After losing my Gonzo several years ago, I have not been able to “replace” him…maybe in retirement… 🙂
    Beautiful quote, Lorraine!

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