Recently, my cousin Jason, a pastor in Montana, shared a brief comment and photo of his daughter and Daphne, the family dog on social media. With Jason’s permission I am sharing it here.
Jason stated, “We asked Natalie to feed the dogs and to make sure Daphne actually eats (she’s gotten confused lately and wanders away from her bowl). I walked into the kitchen to find Daphne with a bib on as Natalie spoon-fed her.”
I admit, I literally laughed out loud when I saw Jason’s post. Natalie took her mission very seriously. She lovingly made sure Daphne ate her food without spilling and did not wander away. Natalie’s simple act of obedience was a great reminder to show the love of Jesus and spiritually feed those around us. Some of us tend to get distracted by events in life and wander away from the nourishment and vitality of the Christian life. It’s good to know there are believers around to help us and gently lead us back on track.
In John 21, Jesus commands Peter three times to “feed my sheep” in response to Peter’s declaration of love for the Lord. Believers are referred to as sheep throughout the Bible and Jesus is our shepherd. As Christians, we are given the same challenge to “feed my sheep.” He asks us to take up this task and tend to His lambs. Much like sheep, we need His care to provide consistent nourishment for our souls as we grow in spiritual maturity. It is God’s Word and the compassion of His followers that feed and minister to us.
The simple compassion of a child for her dog taught me a lot.
When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”
Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”
The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.
John 21:15-17
Simple Faith 
D, Thank you for sharing such an adorable picture:)
I’m trying to wrap my heart around the part of your wonderful blog that convicts me of not being in God’s Word nearly enough and not memorizing more wonderful verses so that at a moments notice I’m ready to “feed a lamb”. My hearts desire always is to encourage the church. I think my next move is to get back into deeper study of Gods Word and to always be ready to give a reason for the hope I have🥰
Thank you so much for today’s blog!
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How sweet and powerful! I’m just hoping when I’m like the wandering puppy, someone will have the compassion to calmly and patiently feed me! Thanks, Deanna!
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