Recently our
family adopted a dog from the animal shelter. When we brought her home, we sat
down in the living room and explained to Izzy the rules of our home. The conversation
went something like this, “I am the god who rescued you from the Kennel of
Bondage and possible euthanasia. You shall have no other masters besides me. You
shall not scratch any of my carpets, walls, or doors. You shall not bark
without a cause. You shall come when I call. You shall not pull on your leash.
You shall not jump on people. And you shall never relieve yourself inside my
house.” Then I explained about the need for atonement. We knew she would
violate these rules at times, but there was forgiveness for her sins. We love
her and provided grace so she can be the good dog we rescued her to be.
Actually, that conversation
never happened. I just made it up. You know why? Because Izzy is a dog. She
does not understand complex human language, only basic commands. She certainly
has no concept of theology, redemption, atonement, or covenant faithfulness.
She knows words like ‘Sit,’ ‘Down,’ and ‘Potty.’ Beyond that, she isn’t much
into conversation.
Most of us are
happy if our dogs simply obey us, not doing the things that displease us while
doing the things that do please us. Unfortunately, many of us think of our
relationship with God in much the same way. We come when He calls; we sit
quietly in worship while His word is preached; we don’t do the things He
commands us not to do. We are content to be obedient…dogs.
