If we are open to it, God can use anything to speak to us. A couple of years ago the brothers got a small black and white bulldog-bull terrier mix from a dog shelter in New Jersey. He was a rescue dog that needed a home, and we where lucky enough to get him before he was euthanized. Chipper, among many attributes, is unwavering in his desire to play! Whether it is tug-of-war, catching Frisbees, wrestling, or just being with someone, if Chipper isn’t asleep, then he’s eager to find you. This attitude is due in part to his gratitude to have a home, to have someone who has “saved” him. I know that Jesus has saved me from much in my life – but I forget this so quickly. When a circumstance goes against how I’d like it, seemingly spinning out of control, I feel angry and afraid. I feel like God has left me and I want to run. I’ve forgotten who feeds me and who has the power to save me. I stop looking to be with, to “play” with, to learn from, and to be fed by my master. Chipper, on the other hand, is even more grateful to see me, even if I’m a little late to feed him dinner, or for our normal time to go for a walk. In fact, he’s even more grateful that I finally did come!  And so is God with us – ever ready.