Huntington Court United Methodist Church issued the following announcement on May 31.
Day 426:
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. (Matthew 10:29-31)
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Today is our last COVID devotional. We started these devotions with the intention of putting one out each day during the pandemic. Now, as we are returning to worship and ending this season of digital distance, I want to use these last few words to tell you about my dog, Aria. Aria is the happiest creature I know. She doesn’t care what happened during the day, whether we’re going to the dog park or the vet, or whether it’s rainy, snowing, or sunny. She’s just grateful to tag along with me in whatever I am doing. She’s happy to be alive, and she enjoys her life to the fullest.
It may seem silly, but I have learned many lessons from Aria since adopting her in 2018. She has taught me patience, responsibility, and unconditional love, but most importantly, she has taught me how to appreciate life. I used to spend so much time fretting when things didn’t go the way I planned, but Aria taught me there is joy to be found in all situations – even the unplanned and difficult ones. Rather than resenting my lot in life, I can choose to look for the good in all circumstances.
2020 was a tough year for most of us, but we survived. We adapted, let go of our assumptions, and kept moving forward. We held on to our faith and came out the other side stronger and more resilient. Now, we can return to our churches, take Communion, pray, talk to our friends, and sing our hearts out. And maybe we have gained a greater appreciation for the beauty found in simple gifts like these.
My dog taught me that rather than worrying about what might go wrong tomorrow, I can choose to be fully present in every moment of this day and appreciate the time God has given me to enjoy the life He created for us. Like our verse today says, “Even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not… you are worth more than many sparrows.” I truly believe God cares for the animals, including our pets, so it only makes sense to me that He must care so much more about you and me.
Of course, I am not encouraging you to live for the present and forsake any responsibility for the future, but I hope you will take time today and every day to appreciate the time God has given you in this moment rather than worrying about what may happen in the future. Be grateful for the simple gift of today and all the blessings within it. We cannot be certain about much in this life, but we are promised that just as God takes care of the animals, He will take care of us. See you Sunday! - Kiana
Original source can be found here.
Source: Huntington Court United Methodist Church
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