June 21, 2026
I am greeted each morning by an insistent muzzle at the bedside, seeking my hand. A tail thumps the bed if I groggily respond with a pet. When my wife arises, our dog bumps into her enthusiastically, emitting joyful grunts. When I get up, there’s immediately an energetic wrestling match with the dog and with two cats as I try to reach my wife. A battle for hugs ensues among us. When I take a nap the cats snuggle, purr and drape themselves over me.
Pets show the emotion of love, just as do horses, who come to us, and great apes. Remember the famous gorilla, Koko, who loved a kitten that she named “All Ball” using signs? God bestowed this important feeling, love, on more than just humans.
We all need love and acceptance. Whether by touch, gentle words, caring actions, or mere presence, showing love is important. We feel good inside offering love, even if the recipient may not notice. Like quietly attending a child’s school event or inquiring about a friend. Love gives comfort and respect in both directions, for giver and for receiver. I think that is also true between God and us, his creation. Worshiping him is returning his love, isn’t it? It shows our thanks for giving us a life to pursue and to share love with others.
