The Parable of the Overeager Dog

By Cathy Spangler

My son had a dog, that I used to tend to now and then when he was working long hours. He lived near a lake, so I often took “Charlie” for walks, which he was excited to do. We both enjoyed when he would come across a strange smell or spot a “critter” of some kind.

The only problem? Charlie thought he was taking ME for a walk instead of me walking HIM. He always had that leash stretched out as far as it would go. I could lock it, but I usually let him go the full length if other dogs weren’t around. Still, Charlie never thought it was enough. He pulled and tugged at me all the way around that lake. I would have enjoyed it if he had just been content to walk with me.

Sometimes I see dogs that walk WITH their master. They pay attention to the direction the master is going. They delight in being WITH their master. When trouble happens they are close to Him and not far away!

In our walk with Jesus, many of us are like Charlie: we try to see how far we can go without “getting into trouble.” We strain and tug against the guidance and correction of the Holy Spirit.

Which dog gives the master the most pleasure? Which dog will be trusted with more responsibility? Which dog will get rewarded? An owner is going to love their pet regardless (usually). I loved and cared about Charlie. But Charlie was missing out on something with me that he didn’t even comprehend: a sweet companionship in the walk!

A companion dog has crucified his natural instincts and the lure of the surrounding world to stay in the JOY of his master.   

He who has ears to hear…let him hear.

Galatians 6:14/John 15:11/3 John 1:4