Another storm rolled through our area this morning.
When the first, faint rumblings of thunder were heard in the distance our dog,
Kari, became agitated. I went to the pantry to get one of her calming chews and
reached for an extra glucosamine tablet for our other dog, Beamer. This weather
is not good for his front left leg that had been severely injured several years
ago. This is our customary pattern at the start of any storm. The same event brings
out entirely different needs in our dogs.
Kari’s needs are emotional. Fear is brought on and
fueled by the loud noises of the thunder and the sudden flashes of lightning.
The initial whimpering and pacing that occur with those early rumblings soon become
incessant, loud barking and frantic running throughout the house. Her fear
level often rises to a panic that is only kept at bay with a Thundershirt and
being held (almost against her will) in a reassuring embrace accompanied by
soft, comforting words.
Beamer’s needs are of a physical origin. Nothing
ever seems to upset him. Yet the changes in air pressure and humidity can cause
pain in his otherwise healed leg. He willingly comes close for comfort and
attention. Supplements to support his bones and joints are all I can offer,
beyond my consoling hugs.
Two dogs with very different needs face the same
storm. It would be utterly foolish for me to treat them the same or reverse the
care plan that we have put in place. Glucosamine would do nothing to calm Kari’s
emotions, and her calming supplement would do nothing for Beamer’s leg.
Although they are both one half Australian Cattle dogs and they are roughly the
same size, they cannot be more different during the storm.
People are also unique creatures with individual
needs. Temperaments, past experiences and physical makeup cause each of us to
respond differently in the same situation. We need to take time to get to know
those around us and listen to the Holy Spirit in order to reach out properly to
meet needs.
The apostle Paul said, “…I have [in short] become all things
to all men, that I might by all means (at all costs and in any and every way)
save some [by winning them to faith in Jesus Christ].” (1
Corinthians 9:22b AMP) He did not ever change the core message of salvation
through Jesus Christ. He did adapt his delivery to the needs of the audience. A
great example of this was when he went to Mars Hill in Athens. There he came
across an altar to the unknown god. He explained to a people who sought after
by many gods that they could know the true God. “For as I passed
along and carefully observed your objects of worship, I came also upon an altar
with this inscription, To the unknown god. Now what you are already worshiping
as unknown, this I set forth to you.” (Acts 17:23 AMP)
We will encounter many people daily. Some will be in
need of hearing the truth that they can have a relationship with God through
the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They will have different barriers
to break past before the light of Jesus can shine through and they see the
truth. Others may be brothers and sisters in Christ. Each one’s steps are to be
guided by the Lord. As we walk alongside we must listen and learn the best ways
to assist other believers to mature. God knows their ability to see and receive
the truth and how we can best offer support.
Our family has spent time
getting to know as much as possible about our dogs. We have consulted both
veterinarians and trainers for advice. Over time we have come up with our
current method of dealing with stormy weather.
No comments:
Post a Comment