Luci Mae is our daughter’s dog, which makes her our grand-dog. A couple of years ago after Kirk prayed for a little romance for Elisa, Luci came into her life. Kirk never expected that God would deem a puppy to fill that role. But after witnessing Luci’s unconditional love for her, we knew that this was the perfect plan.
We too are pretty fond of Luci. However, after living with her for a while, we determined that her annoying bark overruled her lovability. That is when Kirk came up with an idea to buy Luci a barking collar for Christmas that would stimulate every time Luci would bark.
It did not take long for Luci to realize that there would now be consequences if she continued with her incessant bark. Remarkably, just after three pokes Luci learned to keep her mouth shut. Even though the device has three settings to choose from, we only had to use the lowest setting. It was just the slightest of stimulation that transformed Luci into the best dog ever.
Grandpa and Luci are now the best of friends!
This morning as I was reflecting on this past year, God brought to my mind the many instances that I too was annoying to people. I can think of many times where I could have done a better job in keeping my mouth shut. I was saddened as these incidents crossed my mind as I spent time repenting and asking God for His grace and mercy. It felt good as He washed my soul in the cleansing waters of forgiveness.
I then began to think what a brilliant idea it would be, if somehow God could plant some kind of device in me, so that He could zap me whenever I got out of line. It didn’t take long for me to realize what a foolish thought that was; for I have something far better than a planted gadget in me. I have the very Spirit of Christ inside of me.
Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
Jesus’ words in
John 16:7-8
I then begin to question, why I did not hear the Spirit’s voice more often. Are my spiritual ears that dull that I cannot hear God speaking to me? Or, have I intentionally turned down the volume of His voice?
I’m not sure which scenario it is, but I do know that unlike Luci who can do just fine living life in the low zone, I need to have my sensitivity level turned up as high as it can go. For after all, next year at this time I want to be different than what I am today. Yes, I want to be in a better place with my relationship with God next year at this time. In view of that, I pray that God’s Spirit will constantly prod me until I am walking totally dependent on His Spirit.
That is what I want for 2014. What do you want?
And just a fair warning to you all, be very careful of what you ask for; because you may be very surprised on what you get. If you don’t believe me, just ask Luci…she is still in shock over what she received!