DOG TREAT THEOLOGY

I remember back a few years ago when we still had Trigger the Wonder Dog. She was the smartest dog we ever owned. She could read and write and operate a computer keyboard (some days). I actually did teach her to “look both ways before you cross the street” and she would turn her head and check in both directions while we were on our walks.

I also recall (very sadly) that when she was young I would have her sit quietly and wait while I held a Dog Treat where she could see it and then I would place it on her nose while telling her, “Speak (bark),” “Not yet.” She would sit and wait until she heard the, “O.K. you can have your treat,” and she would eat it.” I very soon stopped doing this. Neither the dog nor I enjoyed this for very long. It was owner-exaggerated ego at the expense of a wonderful dog.

As I later recalled this, it reminded me of a similar kind of theology that I was raised with: sit, be quiet, and mind your master, do what you are told and you will get your treat. It was years and many miles later that I met Jesus, was baptized in the Holy Spirit, learned of grace, the acceptance of the Father and the Kingdom of God and the joy and freedom of living in front of the Lord and Master Jesus Christ.

Trigger and I did not do well sitting with treats on our noses and waiting for someone to say, “O.K.” Jesus never asked that of either one of us.

“Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” Jesus