ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
April 29, 2026
I was sitting at the airport yesterday waiting for my flight back to Houston when I saw a man with a guide dog, though he was also being assisted by an airline employee. It was a beautiful dog, and it got me to thinking about the gift that a four-legged friend has been to that individual. Moments later, I opened my computer and, when glancing at my calendar, I noticed that tomorrow (which would be today) is International Guide Dog Day. Since 1989, the last Wednesday of April has been set aside to “celebrate the work of guide dogs around the world and raise awareness of the importance of guide dog services to help people who are blind or have low vision live life on their terms” (from the International Guide Dog Federation). In that moment at the airport yesterday when I saw the guide dog, I found myself full of gratitude for the amazing partnership between handler/user and the talented dog. As the day progressed, my gratitude grew to include those who first begin to dream that some dogs had the intelligence and correct temperament to provide this service. Then came the training and the ongoing development of that training that continues even today. There is, of course, the fundraising and foundations that help with the costs involved. A lot goes into it.
In one moment of time, I saw something that filled my heart with gratitude, but in that moment, my gratitude was limited. Like so many things, there are layers upon layers, behind the scenes people and programs, education, training, etc. Very few things in life that are good and joyful and life-giving just happen. And though we too often see just a sliver of what is occurring, it gives us pause to lift up another prayer of gratitude, even if it is vague. The gratitude is good for us, the universe, and all of it reaches the heart of God.
For all that catches my attention and brings joy, peace, awe, and a reason to celebrate, I turn to you, Sacred Source, with a word of gratitude. I do so, for I know you are the origin of all that is good, life-giving, and full of love. Amen.
