A Dog Named Grace

I met an inspiring woman and dog on my walk yesterday. I first met the dog a few months ago while walking in our adjoining neighborhood. Each time I pass her on my regular route, she watches me eagerly. She wags her tail and looks at me with such longing that I almost stop to pet her. However, I know better than to pet a strange dog inside a fenced area. They can be territorial and many will bite as a result. 

So I always tell the dog what a good dog she is and how I wish I could pet her, but I hope she understands why I cannot. She looks disappointed, but the sweet friendly eyes watch me till I round the corner. Anyway, a couple of days ago, I met her owner walking her!

“I talk to your dog across your fence all the time!” I said. “I have always wanted to pet her but since I didn’t know her, didn’t feel it would be wise.”

The friendly dog was straining on her leash to come say hello. Her tail was wagging like an egg beater.

“Would you like to pet her now?”the owner asked.

“Yes!”

And so that is how I finally got to pet Grace. The owner and I exchanged names and I told her I loved her dog’s name and how apt it was for such a lovely, friendly dog. I learned she was a rescue dog, and newly acquired a few months ago.

“She is friendly,” the owner said, “In fact, I am thinking of having her test to be a therapy dog.” (Therapy dogs travel to places like nursing homes to be a comfort and joy to the senior citizens there. They must be well-behaved and love people.)

“Good luck!” I called as we parted ways.

Then yesterday, I met the pair again. This time we stopped to talk for a longer stretch. I found out that the owner had undergone a very serious surgery just weeks ago. The doctors found more troubling issues when they opened her up, and she faces a daunting future. However, she did not dwell on it, nor express concern. She said that she had other exciting news. She took the plunge and signed Grace up for the therapy dog test next week. This lovely woman who could rightfully hide away in her home and feel sorry for herself with her serious condition was instead determined to bring her sweet, friendly dog out to help others.

“Well I will be praying she does well!” I said.

“She is an amazing dog,” the woman said, “She’s only fifteen months old and she’s so calm and so gentle... I’ve only had her four months and look at what a wonderful dog she is.”

“I guess God knew what you needed,” I said.

She clutched my hand, looking into my eyes. Sometimes you know without a single word of confirmation when you have met someone filled with the Holy Spirit.

“You got that exactly right,” she said.

Grace. Beautiful grace that abounds with hope.

*************

2 Corinthians 12:9 

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.