Lost and Found

Last night I took my dog Bailey with me when I went to my friend Jeni's house for dinner. Bailey and Jeni's dog played while we ate, then we let them out into the backyard while we talked. I'm not sure how long we had been talking when we noticed that the dogs were being awfully quiet in the backyard. Jeni went outside and discovered that her side gate had been opened, and the dogs were no where in sight.

We wandered the neighborhood, calling the dogs' names and offering silent prayers that they would be found alive and well. After several long minutes, the dogs finally appeared, tails wagging and panting heavily from their doggy adventure. I was greatly relieved to find Bailey, and I made sure she stayed close to me the rest of the evening.

On the ride home, I told Bailey (as if she could actually understand me!) that she was silly for running away, because she had it so good and was so spoiled living with me. I guess that every animal, human or otherwise, still longs to venture off at times into the unknown, not realizing how good a life they actually have.

Now, I imagine that the relief I felt at finding my dog is miniscule compared to the relief I would feel if my child had been lost and returned to me. I can't help but think of how great God's joy must be when one of His lost children return to Him.

He knows where all of His children are at all times, but He gives them the choice of returning; He doesn't force anyone to be with Him. So I can't help but think that God weeps tears of joy when He sees His beloved child in the distance, coming back to Him.

O God, let me never forget how good You treat me!