Mushu is the doggiest cat I know. And he taught me one of the greatest spiritual lessons I’ve ever learned.
Primarily an outside pet, Mushu lives two cul de sacs over from my house. I see him every day on my morning walk.
But he always sees me first.
As soon as I turn the corner and head down the street, he bounds toward me, tail held high and white paws flashing. He greets me with chirrups and meows, delighted I’ve come his way. Leaning into my fingers as I scratch behind his ears and down his spine, he knows every encounter with me is good.
Unlike other neighborhood cats who run, hide, or approach me hesitantly, Mushu runs toward me with a confidence born of trust and relationship.
Hebrews 4:14-16 reminds me I can enjoy this same confidence in my relationship with God.
“Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
Hebrews 4:14-16
Because Jesus Christ has removed the sin barrier that separated us, I can come boldly to him in prayer. Our relationship gives me full access to his mercy and grace. I need not fear his wrath, judgment, or disapproval.
My Father is always eager to see me approach. Before a word leaves my lips, he is already working on my behalf. Scattering good gifts like raindrops, he waters my thirsty soul. I rest secure, knowing that he who knows me best loves me most.
Father, remind me every day how you eagerly wait for me to approach you in prayer. Even before I turn my gaze toward you, your eyes are upon me, and your ears are attentive to my cry. Silence the voice of the enemy that sows seeds of fear, confusion, and timidity into my heart. Help me rest in confidence, knowing you are my Savior and my advocate, my protector and my friend.
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Such a heartwarming post. I sometimes ask myself, “Who loves whom more?” when it comes to my pal Bubba the chocolate lab. I not sure some days which of us is more excited to see the other. I pray God feels that same way too whenever I come running to Him.
The love of a faithful pet is one of the sweetest things on earth. Only God would have created animals like Bubba and Mushu with us in mind 🙂 The love of a faithful Father, on the other hand, trumps it all. How blessed we are.
I enjoyed this lesson from your visits with Mushu, Lori, as well as your explanation of how God views us. I’m grateful for access to the Father and this truth you shared: “Scattering good gifts like raindrops, he waters my thirsty soul.”
Isn’t God creative in His love toward us? As the book of Romans reminds us, all creation declares His glory and attributes. Even funny little kitties like Mushu 😉 Thanks for joining the conversation today, friend.
How sweet, Lori! When you described Mushu runing toward you, it brought to mind the prodical son’s Father. So exciting to know the Lord of the Universe waits eagerly to see me.
You’re absolutely right, Sherry. I wonder how long that faithful father waited, straining his eyes to watch for his wandering son? Yet another example of God’s great big faithful heart toward us his children. Thanks for joining the conversation today, friend!