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PAINFUL SNARLS

“But I say to you who hear, love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you,” Luke 6:27-28 ESV. I was driving along many years ago when a large Irish Setter ran into the street from between two parked cars. I didn’t see him quickly enough to avoid contact, but I hit the brakes hard and fast. My vehicle only bumped him slightly. I leaped out to check on him, and he was under my van, not seriously hurt but dazed and confused. I reached toward him to comfort him and he and snarled, crawled quickly from underneath the van, and ran away. His snarl and refusal of help were not personal; he reacted out of pain and confusion. When hurting, people will often do the same. It can be brutal, but genuine love is authenticated in these moments, and shallow love is exposed. Father, forgive my snarling resistances to Your loving touch. When others react to me as I have to You, please grant me the same patient mercy for them that You always extend to me. 

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