In South St. Louis City there is an over-population of pit bulls.  In fact we actually own a rescue pit/boxer mix named Minnie.  She is a loyal and gentle friend to our family, which now includes an almost 10-month old grand baby.  Minnie watches the baby as if he were her own and sits faithfully beside him anytime he is on the floor or near by.  Though this dog might appear fierce or ferocious to a stranger, she is a big teddy bear and simply wants be wherever you are - preferrably ON your lap if at all possible!  She lives to snuggle and show affection.  Dedication is all but written across her forehead, and of course we are pleased and more than satisfied with a companion so lovable and steadfast!  As I contemplate faithfulness, even Minnie cannot compare to the perfect loyalty of our God.  His word says He NEVER leaves or forsakes us!  How I pale in my service towards Him!!  

How could I ever earn such dedicated love and mercy?   

I suppose that is the point.  We cannot in a lifetime - or two - or three - ever earn God's amazing grace and lovingkindness!  He simply offers it because He is never-failing in faithfulness!  Wow.  My heart leaps at the very idea that no matter what I have done, He is still faithful.  He still loves me and only asks that I accept and love Him in return.  Not a bad deal!  In fact His saving gift comes complete with His love, peace, compassion and eternal promises.

Lord, I could pray that my time spent with you would be at least as frequent as there are pit bulls in South St. Louis! :)  But more-so, might I be at least as loyal to you as our Minnie is to us.  Might I learn to sit faithfully at Your feet and simply desire to snuggle with a God who so loved me that He offered His only begotten Son to cover my human inability to return such love.