It’s been several weeks since we lost our Doberman, Winnie. For those of you who love your pets, you know about that undying love and faithful companionship that shows up every day. People ask, “Are you doing ok?”
Grief changes. The searing pain of grief has slowly eased. It is being replaced with deeper feelings of compassion as my heart heals. I do very well until I think of his courage. It’s a place I don’t like to stay for too long.
He fought so hard to keep smiling, bring us toys and be a part of the family. He struggled to get up the steps. He never cried or complained. He had such courage. When I think about how he fought to ‘be’ and love us, I need courage.
The Word of our Lord is filled with encouragement and hope. Throughout the ‘voice of God on the pages’ we are given hope to have the courage to press on.
“But Christ is faithful as a son over God’s house. And we are His house, if we hold on to our courage and the hope of which we boast.” Hebrews 3:6
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith, be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:13
“I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage…..” Philippians 1: 20
“But now I urge you to keep up your courage…..” Acts 27:22
“The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, “Take courage!”…..Acts 23:11
“But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Matthew 14:27
“He …..encouraged them with these words… ‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged…for there is a greater power with us….” 2 Chronicles 32:7
“Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Be strong and courageous……”Joshua 10:25
“….Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
“Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever to you.” Joshua 1:7
“Be strong and courageous….” Joshua 1:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you” Deuteronomy 31:6