Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to give you a future and a hope.” (NAS)
Fall. Rich, vibrant, colors. Coolness. Sweaters and coats. I hiked a new trail at Rampart Park on the north side of Colorado Springs. The trees are fabulous as I hiked with my friend’s dog Max. He is a Husky, brown and cream with his thick winter coat and brown and blue eyes. He explores the dog park first and then I want to see if he will be all right hiking with me off leash. ‘Oh Lord, don’t let him run away.’ He is bonding to me after 24 hours, but he is their baby. I feel such a responsibility, but I want him to run free.
There is no one around as it is raining on a late Monday morning. Max is a sprinter, pounding down the trail after a smell, hunting prey, and marking his territory. He comes back to me easily and I say “Go, Max go.” The strength in his youthful body and the joy in his run make me marvel at his ancient wolf like character. He runs to the tree, explores a little and sprints back to me when I call and then he is out of sight for just a moment. The light rain and gusty wind makes me glad I have on a sweater, coat, and raincoat.
Max teaches me joy. I wonder at the beauty and change of seasons. The coolness of autumn after a dry and hot summer. Smiles and doggy kisses. Hopefulness returns. Max is still a joy, even as he is older, he runs with abandon. He is that white spot in the distance at 9 years old.
In what area of your life do you need to have hope today? What are your plans for today, this month, this year?Dogs