That Dog Will Hunt

I recently returned from the Grand National Bird Dog Trials in Grand Junction, Tennessee. This is a fantastic event where the top dogs compete over a two week period. Dogs have to qualify to even be considered for competition. These are expensive dogs that can make big money. No, I don't own such a dog! I just like to watch them run. Handlers, judges, owners, and the gallery are all on horseback.

It is truly amazing to watch these dogs work. There are two braces each day. Each brace lasts three hours. The dog runs for three hours sniffing out coveys of quail. They are highly trained and conditioned to "hunt" over various terrain covering some 28-30 miles. Longer than a marathon! Each "point" the dog makes is judged on many levels. The handlers are judged as well. Thankfully the gallery is NOT judged.

I have been going to these trials for almost twenty years. During that time I have seen dogs run in beautiful 60 degree weather as well as 15-20 degree snowy days. The heart of the dogs is truly a sight to watch. The dogs run two at a time and they can't wait to run. They are so excited about the hunt. Their noses are always searching for that familiar scent. They will bypass all other scents (hopefully) to find that specific smell that lets them know a covey is close. The dog that wins gets the most points that are productive and high quality.

This year I spent three days on horseback following these beautiful dogs in admiration of their abilities. I was thinking about the heart of these dogs and the heart of Christians. We have a "handler" that gives us directions on the path we should go. We have training. We know what we are supposed to be after. We face distractions and conditions that challenge our heart. We are encouraged to run the race and finish well. So how are we doing?

Do you give up easily? Are you distracted by other things that look so good and promise so much? Are you listening to the handler? Are you staying on the course? No all dogs finish their respective brace. Some run so far off course that they are disqualified. Some can't go the distance and stop short. Others may get "on point" but there are no birds. Some just don't pay attention to their handler!

How are you running this Christian race called life? I pray you will run like the champion God has made you. He has a prize for you greater than you could ever imagine!

From the Heart,
Pastor BR