October 5 , 2007

Braidy died this week. Somehow this beautiful golden lab wandered out onto the highway and was struck by a car. And because Braidy was dearly loved, his owner was devastated. Loss + love = deep pain!

Part of the grief process produced this question directed at me. “Will Braidy be in heaven?”
I don’t know. I know people feel strongly about it. On one hand I see no reason why God would prohibit pets from the new earth. They are a source of great joy for us.

On the other hand I see no reason why they’re necessary. After all, there are those who will not share eternity with their spouse or their child. I don’t believe their experience will be destroyed because of that. If God designs the best for me and it doesn’t include my pet, who am I to want something less than best?

But you see, I don’t take this question as being about animals. It’s really about who we experience God to be.

I can’t find, in my reading of the Bible, that a pet’s future is an issue that is dealt with. So I answered, “I don’t know.”

I do know that God gives special attention to children. Jesus said drowning is a good way to deal with people who cause children to sin. (Matthew 18:6)

I do know that God notices what happens to the least of His creation – that He cares, and that we are the most important of His creation. (Luke 12:6-7)

I know that God’s consistent intention is to give what is good. He is good. He is love. And because of those qualities, the circumstances of this week are another painful reminder to our heavenly Father of just how much He wants His Son to come and bring us home.

“For the LORD God is our light and protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good thing will the LORD withhold from those who do what is right. O LORD Almighty, happy are those who trust in you.” Psalm 84:11-12

Rejoicing in hope,
Pastor Steve