A few months ago, I told you about our new family member Elektra, Ele for short. Part Jack Russell, she came to us from the Jacksonville Humane Society. She had been neglected, knew nothing of playing, and was skittish around everyone.
After about six months of loving on her, her personality has changed greatly. She sits on our laps, not all the time, but sometimes. When we first got her she wouldn’t even come near us. She’s learned to sit, lay, and catch her treats. She still doesn’t really understand play, and when we try to play with her, she seems to think she’s in trouble. She is getting better about letting people pet her at Pet Smart as long as they go slow. But she is very protective of the inside of the house. The poor bug guy didn’t stand a chance with all that barking and snarling. But maybe in time that will change, but for now, she’s doing much better because she’s become secure in the fact that we love her.
Love can change those who have been neglected or abused. It takes time and patience, but that’s what love is. And that’s why the verbiage of Matthew 22:36-40 is so important. People were sitting around with Jesus, and one asked Him what the most important commandment is. “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.
Jesus didn’t say obey God, He said “love the Lord your God.” And if you love God, you will want to do the second, which is to “love your neighbor.” Love is the most important word in this passage.
I thought I’d share a short video of Ele with her ball. It’s the only toy right now she plays with, and I have to fill it with snacks.
I hope you enjoy and have a blessed week.
If you or someone you know is in need of prayer, please leave a comment below. I’ll be happy to pray for the situation.
