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Today's Bible Verse:

"This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24)

 

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The Mark

One of the things my dogs learned as we traversed through the beginnings of agility class, is the command to *mark.* The instructor used an overturned flat-bottomed rubber feed bowl for this exercise. Before running the course, the dog must learn to put their two front feet on the bowl and to patiently stand and wait for the next command. The mark helps the dog to focus on the course ahead and the instructions of their handler. Agility courses are great fun for dogs, but without concentration, obedience and direct connection with their master they cannot be run successfully.

At the end of the course, there is another spot, where the dog once again *marks* at which time they enjoy the satisfaction of appropriate praise and direction from their master and a well deserved rest.

This morning when I went down to feed the horses and the goats, I found myself laughing, as well as remembering the importance of the command to *mark,* as Agnes, the goat, was patiently waiting for her hay, with her two front feet planted atop an overturned feed bowl: A coincidence perhaps? No, I believe it was a God moment. God's way of reminding me of the importance of starting and finishing my day on the *mark* as well.

In many ways each of our days is an agility course. We never know just what lies ahead. It is therefore, most important to *mark* the beginning of the day; to take a few moments to wait patiently upon the Lord in thought, prayer or perhaps with a Scripture reading. By so doing we may consciously focus upon the wonder of the new day, as well as re-establish direct connection with Him, who is able to help us run the course with both joy and success.

Likewise at the end of our day, when our course has been run, taking time to *mark* its completion brings its own satisfaction. It allows us opportunity to be thankful for the presence and guidance of the Lord, to ponder upon both our success's and yes, perhaps even our short comings of the day. It is a moment to listen and receive praise and direction, as well as a great way to lay down one's head in peace and embrace the joy of a well deserved rest.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you that each new day is one which You have made and are more than able to competently guide us through. Remind us to *mark* the beginning and ending of each one with our focus upon You, that we may run with holy direction, success and satisfaction. In Christ's name we ask. Amen.

Lynne Phipps

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