I think we can learn from our pets in many ways, one of them is their unconditional love
and acceptance of us (even when we have our worst days), they keep coming and loving.
That is exactly what GOD is like, but we have this general thinking that when we do wrong, we run from HIM (see Adam and Eve to start with).
Instead we should be running to HIM, the only ONE who really knows us - and truly loves us.
As good as all that is (and its VERY GOOD), we are told we are to love like JESUS loves.
That means loving others - especially our enemies, those that maybe are not so plesant.
Note: we are not to do this by ourselves, but HE changes us from the inside out, in order
to LOVE properly - love like HIM.
I know someone who loves the LORD, and loves her dogs and works as a part time
animal shelter helper. This person, is and has been always around animals and absolutely adores them.
One time, we were at a Christian retreat, and the dogs came to visit (not bad dogs, actually quite good dogs) but being excited, they (unknowingly) cornered a 5 year old, who was afraid of dogs (had a bad experience before).
Anyway, the dogs only wanted to play - but she (the little girl) started to scream.
She was really afraid of the bigger dogs.
Of course, everyone heard the screams, and came running to the girl.
This dog lover, instead of trying to comfort the little girl, instead scolded her for her
screaming and later said, the little girl probably scarred the dogs for life!
There is no sin to love creation, and we are amazed and absolutely love it.
There is sin, when we love things in wrong order - that can end up as lust.
Afterall, animals were not made in GOD'S image.
Just a thought...
-eric