Matters of Faith
By Dr. Bascom Ratliff
Pastor, Parker/Beagle/Fontana United Methodist Church
Scripture: Matthew 19: 26. “With God all things are possible.”
Several years ago I had a lively discussion with a friend about whether our dogs and cats went to heaven when they died. His cat that had been with him for 17 years had died and he was still grieving the loss. He was wondering whether the cat would be in heaven waiting for him when he too died at the end of his journey on this earth. I had to admit to him that I did not know whether cats went to heaven. We continued our discussion about heaven, but sadly enough I simply forgot about our discussion until recently.
Last week I had another discussion with a family member about whether dogs go to heaven. They recently read an article about the blessing of animals. The article’s author suggested that God, with his infinite power and his great love for us, surely made accommodations in heaven for those animals that we deeply loved and cared for.
Again, I’m not sure whether dogs or cats go to heaven. However, I am quite sure that with God all things are possible. With this sentiment, I find myself leaning toward the notion that heaven is such a marvelous and wonderful place that God surely has made provisions for animals that are near and dear to us. And when we ceremoniously bless them, we are certainly letting God know how important they are to us.
For me, the real point of this story is the unlimited and unfailing love of God who knows no limitations and no impossibilities. I take great comfort in believing that God is omnipotent and all-powerful. I take great comfort in knowing that he loved us so much that he sent Jesus, his son, as a sacrifice for our sins. Jesus became our Savior, our passport, our credentials, to access heaven when our journey on this earth is complete. I take great comfort in knowing, and sincerely believing, that my grief and despair are covered by the blood of Jesus. I take great comfort in knowing that God is with me and nothing can separate me from the love of God. I pray that God’s great love includes animals.
During our time on this earth, most of us have lost a great number of family and friends. Many of us have lost pets, whether they be cats, dogs, or others. My prayer this week has been that God recognizes these important companions that have given us joy. I thought about those furry companions provided so much pleasure and cheerfulness to my life. And, maybe a little selfishly, I have pleaded with God to continue caring for those furry companions that have died. Knowing and believing that all things are possible with God, continues to give me comfort and hope.
I think it’s also important to keep in mind that God has made it abundantly clear that he loves and cares for all of us. We are part of his flock. Nothing can separate us from his love. This is the companion message: God loves us, God has prepared a home for us, and spending eternity with him is a most wonderful gift.
_______________________________
Do you find yourself longing for genuine love and companionship? If you’re ready to seek God’s love, I invite you to come and worship with us. We are fueled by God’s wonderful promise of unfailing love. Please accept our invitation to a morning of wonderful music and great fellowship. And, of course, hot coffee and cookies.
__________________
We are worshipping at the Parker United Methodist Church during October 2024.
We will worship at the Beagle UMC during November 2024.
We will worship at the Fontana UMC during December 2024.
All Sunday services are at 10 a.m.
We serve communion on the first Sunday of the month.
All are welcome in God’s House.
Dr. Bascom Ratliff (913-710-5748)
Pastor, Parker/Beagle/Fontana
United Methodist Churches
Comments