The Comfort of Bentley
Recently I blogged “Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder” – unless that one cannot physically see. Case in point. I took care of Bentley for a few days while my children were out of town. Bentley is their 12-year-old Havanese dog who cannot see. Sometimes I feel like he can, because he navigates himself quite well through familiar territory. But, put him in unchartered locations, he’ll bump into objects, walls or doors. When I took him for walks, he did so well in patches of grass or walking on the street that I accidentally let him bump into a curb or light pole. He didn’t complain. He carried on with his sniffing and searching with his nose. Other than running into obstacles, no one would know he couldn’t see.
One day, I took him out to do his business. I saw a woman with two little girls walking their huge labradoodle dog and coming our way. They were having a great time playing together when the dog saw Bentley, and broke free of the little girl holding his leash. He literally attacked poor Bentley. I saw him going after Bentley’s legs and my protective instincts took over as I screamed “Get him off!” Bentley was growling at the monster attacking him and the mom rushed over and grabbed the dog’s leash and pulled him off. I loudly exclaimed “This little dog is blind!” The woman apologized while the little girls were in shock and tears. And so was I! I was thinking “Not on my watch will Bentley end up not only blind, but three-legged!”
Here’s my analogy of this scenario! On one hand, that big dog was like the enemy of our souls, seeking who he could devour, while bringing chaos and torment into our lives. All it took was for that dog’s master to yank him away from Bentley. And, honestly, Bentley, other than growling at his attacker in the middle of the attack, went right back to his sniffing and meandering as though nothing had happened to him. He didn’t act afraid to carry on. And here’s another thing about Bentley. He may not be able to see but he knows love and knows how to give love. He cuddles in close to us. He wants to be near to us. He provides comfort to us –especially when we need to settle down from a day of dealing with the “tormentor”.
Some reading this blog might consider it cruel to keep Bentley around considering his inability to see. Here’s why not. Bentley is not only a companion and friend, but he is also a comfort to the entire family. Sometimes we just need that gentle snuggle from anyone – human or animal to feel comforted. Bentley is quick to come when called. We talk to him and assure him of our presence. And we love HIS presence.
Forgive me for this far-reaching analogy, but I can’t help but think about the Holy Spirit (The Comforter) and the comfort He brings us. Ten days after Christ’s ascension, this Sunday celebrates Pentecost — the day when the 120 disciples gathered in the Upper Room. The Holy Spirit fell upon them. Everything changed for them. Now they were empowered – so much so that even Peter and John’s shadow healed those who they passed by. Jesus gave the announcement before He ascended that He had to go away so the Comforter could come. I know this comfort. I live in this comfort. Each day, I’m trying to open my eyes and heart more to the movements of the Holy Spirit, so that I can see God with my physical and spiritual eyes. Even more than that, I hope and pray to have holy courage to be outspokenly grateful about the Lord’s gifts. You can, too! Welcome, Holy Spirit, to guide us, direct us and bring us comfort.
“May Your unfailing love be my comfort, according to Your promise to your servant.” Psalm 119:76