Luna

I love having a garage. Is it raining or snowing? The garage has you covered—literally! Once safely inside I can close the door without even getting out of my vehicle. It is safe and secure, a real convenience, especially at night.

One evening my husband and I returned from town as darkness settled over us. He pulled in but did not immediately close the garage door.

I opened my door to get out, and a big furry thing surprised me! Was it a bear? I screamed and slammed my door shut. My husband, thinking I had seen a spider, walked confidently around the vehicle and came face-to-face with a Caucasian shepherd dog. If you are not familiar with this breed, its average weight is between 99 and 170 pounds, and it is usually 23 to 30 inches tall at its shoulder. Luna lived down the street, and we had seen her impressive presence on our walks. Here in our garage, instead of a dominating demeanor, she seemed utterly vulnerable, unsure of where she was or how to get home.

We felt for her collar, but it must have fallen off.

Her fur was so soft and fluffy. Had I really been intimidated by this gentle giant? So, with no collar or leash, the three of us walked down the dark road. She would whine and stand questioningly at the front door of every house we passed.

Each time, we said, “No, Luna, not that one.” About halfway down the street, Luna caught the scent of home and raced off. Arriving at her house, we found no one home. Since Luna seemed happy and did not try to follow us, we left her, praying she would be a good girl until her family returned. Garages are safe only if you close the door. However, if you always keep yourself closed off, you will miss out on meeting and helping others.

Jesus made sure to spend private time with God, and He also prioritized ministering to people. These are not two mutually exclusive things.

Jesus spent time with God so He could better help others. Dear Lord, help me recognize the visible and invisible doors I use to isolate myself.

Open my heart and my home to Your Spirit and Your people. “Those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed” (Proverbs 11:25, NLT). Amen.

Deidre A. Jones