2383) It’s no surprise to most of you readers, but I love my pets. Each one I’ve had through the years holds a special part of my heart. What a great gift God has given us through our pets.

One thing my last two dogs does/did that surprised me is when, upon occasion, I was crying, my little dogs would jump in my lap and desperately try to smother me with kisses, and did not leave until I was composed.

This may not appeal to some of you, but it reminds me of Matthew 9:36. Here the author describes the compassion of Jesus. He didn’t jump in people’s laps, of course, but his direct attention is drawn to his children in need.

Compassion is the tree that grows out of empathy. The ability to feel and understand the experiences of others. The inability to experience compassion is unfortunate for everyone.