Sunday, May 23, 2010

Freedom to Choose

Sabbath Day Scripture:  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.   John 10:27

It was Stake Conference today and our mission president (President B.) spoke about his dog Chip, who died of old age about a year ago. He loved that dog and especially admired and appreciated the dog's obedience and self discipline.  Chip would go on runs with President B., but he didn't have to be on a leash because President B. would only have to call him to his side if another dog or person came near.  Thus, Chip had all the freedom to run and enjoy his time outdoors as long as he obeyed his master's call to come to his side when it was necessary.  President B. marveled at how Chip obeyed, even when other dogs threatened him or wanted to play.

One day while running with Chip, President B. could see this really mean dog he knew coming their way.  The owner always had to keep this dog on a strong lease with a choke chain to try and control him.  Every time President B. saw this dog, he was dragging his owner along, trying to get loose, all the while being yanked back by the uncomfortable chain collar.  As the mean dog approached, President B.  called Chip to him, who immediately responded and came to his side.  Chip stayed there faithfully as the mean dog and his owner went past.  All the while the mean dog strained and lunged at his lease, causing the owner to yank him back violently and scold him.  Chip stood firmly by President B.'s side.

President B. couldn't help compare the two dogs.  The vicious dog, who was not willing to listen to his owner, had no freedom.  He couldn't be trusted to run and explore.  He had to be spoken to harshly and suffer discomfort and pain for his bad behavior.  As long as that dog was unwilling to obey the rules, he could not be freed.

Chip listened to his master's voice and came immediately when he was called.  He didn't look around to see if there was something more interesting to entertain him or divert him from the call.  He didn't ignore his master and pretend he didn't hear him.  He didn't question if there was a good reason for his fun to be interrupted.  He allowed nothing to keep him from his duty to be obedient.  Chip remained faithfully dependable all of his life and enjoyed true freedom while lovingly being taken care of by his family.

Rest in peace, dear Chip.  Good dog.


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