A Dog's Lesson on Suffering

Wonderful Christmas for us. Not so much for Honeybun. Her spinal stenosis issue which had been completely controlled by her medications is flaring. Over Christmas, she could barely walk. I had to put her "hiphound hotpants" on her, which we used when she first became lame many months ago. The compression of the soft splint around her hips seems to support the muscles and she is more able to walk while wearing it. I will be calling the vet today to see if we need to bring her in, or just increase her meds.

It is very sad. She is totally uncomplaining, but it is clear she is in pain when she tries to walk. I don't know exactly what set if off. It has been 6 months since she has had any problems. So hubby built a fire and everyone played with their Christmas gifts while Honeybun stretched out in front of the fire. Despite the pain, when we changed rooms, she followed, and then collapsed near us. Her desire in the midst of her suffering is to never lose sight of her master.

It is perhaps fitting that my Bible reading has now landed in the book of Job. My dog has the patience of Job, and has been similarly much afflicted in life. As I begin the study of Job, I look again to my dear Honeybun and wish I could be more like her. Even though I don't speak "dog," it is clear she is not saying, "Why me?" She is not blaming anyone, nor is she losing faith in her caretakers. She accepts stoically what happens to her without despair, or despondancy, or rancor. She doesn't growl or whine as we put on her brace, though we know it must hurt as we lift her onto her wobbly legs.

I know my children and those around me are watching to see how I will weather the storms of life. I am not a Honeybun. I spend all night many nights fitfully sleeping, but then pouring out my heart in prayer. This is what they don't see, but it is probably the best thing I do. During the day, I fret, and worry, and often feel despairing over the mounting problems. I see no way out of some issues and wonder how we will face the future. The Book of Job will be a good place to settle for awhile. If anyone had a right to rant and worry, it was Job. And to some degree, he does. But in the end, he hears God, and his whole attitude changes. This is a good reminder. Keep my heart stayed on the word of God, while watching my stoic dog face suffering with trust and faith that her Master cares for her. And like Honeybun, no matter how much it hurts, and how difficult it is, follow my Master always.

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Be humble in the presence of God's mighty power, and he will honour you when the time comes. God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him. Be on your guard and stay awake. Your enemy, the devil, is like a roaring lion, prowling around to find someone to attack. But you must resist the devil and stay strong in your faith. You know that all over the world the Lord's followers are suffering just as you are. But God shows undeserved kindness to everyone. That's why he appointed Christ Jesus to choose you to share in his eternal glory. You will suffer for a while, but God will make you complete, steady, strong, and firm. God will be in control for ever! Amen. (1 Peter 5:6-11 CEVUK00)

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