Today’s scripture: Romans 8:15-17 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts on this passage (David Squire):
Some time ago, my partner Dave and I adopted two dogs from rescue organizations. There’s Chester, a beagle/border collie/something mix, who made himself at home almost from day one. Then there’s Avery, the pit bull mix. Contrary to the breed’s (undeserved) reputation, she’s the sweetest dog you’ll ever meet. And she was wary coming into our household — fearful, kind of nervous. We don’t know much about Avery’s life before we adopted her, but her fear leads us to believe that it wasn’t very good.
Avery the pit bull, with her happy-go-lucky brother Chester.
When they were adopted, Chester and Avery hit the puppy jackpot. They’ve got everything they could ever need or want — good food and “cookies”, rope toys and rawhide chews, a yard to chase squirrels in, and dads who provide pets and tummy rubs and walks and don’t mind (much) wiping their muddy paws.
Dave and I both noticed that nearly a year after she was adopted, Avery began wagging her tail more, and was noticeably more at ease. It took her quite a while to let down her guard and feel “at home”, but eventually, she understood — she’s been adopted, and she’s safe here. Memories of cages and animal shelters and whatever came before have faded away — she’ll never have to go there, ever again.
I see Christians who live as Avery used to be, and I just don’t understand. We often live in such fear — fear that God is watching, waiting for us to slip up, so that we can be whipped and put in a cage for being “bad dogs”.
But we should be full of joy because we live in God’s presence, not full of fear. As The Message puts it, we can say with adventurous expectation, “What’s next, Papa?” We “behave” not because we fear punishment — but because we don’t want to interrupt the joy that comes from abiding close to the One who has adopted us.
We don’t disown our dear puppies when they have muddy paws, and God doesn’t toss us aside, either. God will gently wipe away the dirt, all the while reassuring us that we’re still part of the family. We’ve been adopted — we’re here to stay.
Thought for the day: Does it feel “improper” to call God daddy? What am I afraid of?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to start, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.