What We Can Learn from Dogs

Dog and cat lovers have been arguing the merits of both species for years. While that argument may not be easily resolved, canine pet partners are working miracles in homes and hospitals across the country. Perhaps we love dogs and find them so helpful because they are obedient, loyal and provide companionship. These are values Jesus readily understood as he prepared to leave his disciples

[This material makes no pretense of being an in-depth theological study of the Johannine passage on the coming ministry of the Holy Spirit. It does link, however, to two themes in the text: the quality of obedience, and the comfort the Holy Spirit will bring. The material that follows asserts that the church would be stronger if it were full of Dog Christians - people who are unwaveringly committed to Jesus Christ and who allow the Spirit to work through them to bring comfort and joy to others. The material also has great potential as a Power Point presentation. The content may be simple, but we suspect that your congregation will find it equally profound. Our thanks to Rev. Dr. Wesley Taylor of Tualatin United Methodist Church in Tualatin, Oregon, for the conceptual framework of this material.]

The patient, whom we'll call Hazel, entered UCLA Medical Center for quadruple-bypass surgery. Since being moved into ICU, she had barely moved, or even opened her eyes. It had been days now,...