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“For you, O Lord, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy.” Psalm 92:4
Wag more, bark less. I was reminded of that familiar bumper sticker at this year’s Blessing of the Animals, one of my favorite SMPC traditions. During this outdoor worship service, members of our faith community bring their furry or feathery friends for a special blessing and a few minutes of four-legged fellowship. After some cautionary barks, the tails start wagging, and you’ll find poodles canoodling right alongside King Charles Cavaliers, Labrador Retrievers sniffing and smiling with Dachshunds and “marvelous” mutts enjoying biscuits with Cocker Spaniels. Granted, we don’t get too many cats, and only one year did we have birds, but I like to think everyone would get along with each other if we did.
No matter the length or color of their fur, the brand of their collars, or the types of cars they hang their heads out of, the pups are blind to the differences among them. They know what’s important: treats, naps and playtime…in other words, heaven.
We can learn something from our four-legged friends, and the Advent season is the perfect time to start. Let’s welcome all - even the loud barkers - to our yard. Let’s toss them a ball (an invitation to worship) and see if they fetch it. Let’s share some treats (lemonade and cookies), wag tails (chat) and, in general, be of good cheer toward one another, especially those we might not know. (If we’re going along with this theme, let’s save the naps for after worship!)
Wag more. Bark less. Exude joy, happiness and optimism. Focus on the important stuff: treats, naps, play…and heaven.
Lord, thank you for the abundant gifts you’ve given us. Help us to spread your joy and light to others in our community during this season and keep our hearts open to the endless possibilities of your love.
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