Belly-Rubs and Bones

These are two of my puppy's favorites.  I gladly give them, although the bones are a very special treat.  Can't give Redford too many of those - it could make him sick.  The belly-rubs, however, are given very often - whenever he is docile enough to enjoy them.  Otherwise, he is nipping at my hands and squirming so much that he cannot enjoy the simple pleasure of the belly-rub. 

Sometimes I think God gives belly-rubs.  Seriously.  I think there are times that He sees we are relaxed and focused on Him and his goodness and He chooses that time to fill us with His peace and love. That's a belly-rub from God.  We are just still and quiet and can enjoy His presence.  I like those times.  I can get a belly-rub from God whenever I choose to relax and focus on Him. 

Bones, however, are another story.  If I give Redford too many bones or other treats, he ignores the "healthy" food that is available to him.  Too many "bones" could even make him sick.  So, I reserve the bones for very special times.  Those times when I just want to show him how much I love him.  The bones are are usually given when he leasts expects it.  They are something I do just to make him happy. 

Sometimes God gives me bones, too.  I don't deserve them.  Not by a long shot.  But, when I least expect it, a nice juicy bone will come my way.  It is at those times that I know that God loves me just because I'm me.  Not because of anything I have done.  He approves of me just because I belong to Him.  BUT . . . if God gave me bones all the time, I would have no reason to seek Him.  Nope, the bones have to be given sparingly.  That's what makes them so special. 

Belly-rubs and bones.  Two of life's simple pleasures.  Gladly given by the Master.