10 Ways Pepper Reminded Me of God’s Love
I thought I might have moved on this week and write about something other than Pepper, but alas, here we still are. Walking through the waves of grief that are still hitting hard!
When God blessed me with Pepper, I thought I was just getting a loyal pet. I had no idea that over eleven beautiful years, that sweet dog would become a living, breathing object lesson of the Father’s heart. In the quiet everyday moments, and especially during the heavy transitions of life, Pepper routinely pointed me back to Jesus.
As I reflect on her life (albeit far too short for my liking), here are 10 small ways Pepper reminded me of God’s love:
1. She Loved Without Conditions
Pepper didn’t care if I had a productive day, if I was in my fat pants, or if I made a mistake.
Her love was entirely free, mirroring the grace of a Saviour who loves us exactly as we are.
2. She Was Present in the Silence
When my world fell apart, and I felt completely disoriented, Pepper didn’t offer empty platitudes. She just sat next to me, closer than a close thing! She reminded me that God doesn’t always demand words; His presence is enough.
3. She Never Maintained a Record of Wrongs
If I accidentally tripped over her or delayed her dinner, she forgave me instantly. There was no resentment or cold shoulder. Her quickness to restore connection was a beautiful picture of God’s total forgiveness.
4. She Noticed My Deepest Hurts
Whenever tears fell, Pepper would instantly put her head on my lap. She had a divine radar for sorrow. It reminded me that God is intimately acquainted with our grief and is always close to the brokenhearted.
5. She Trusted My Absolute Provision
Pepper never worried about where her next meal was coming from or if she would have a warm place to sleep. She rested entirely in my care. Her peace challenged me to trust my Heavenly Father to provide for all my needs. Even during this time of grief.
6. She Always Welcomed Me Home
Whether I was gone for five days or five minutes, her reaction was always the same: pure, ecstatic jumping up and down joy. It reminded me of the Father running to meet the prodigal son—always ready to welcome us home with open arms.
7. She Looked Past My Earthly Titles
To the world, I might have been the pastor’s wife or a ministry leader. To Pepper, I was just her person. She taught me that God values our identity as His children far above any title we could ever hold.
8. She Found Joy in Very Simple Things
A walk around the block, a stray piece of cheese, or a sunny spot in the house filled her with absolute contentment. She reminded me that God’s blessings are scattered through our daily routines if we just slow down to notice them.
9. She Kept Constant Watch
Pepper was my shadow, following me everywhere….always! Her constant companionship was a beautiful earthly echo of God’s promise: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
10. She Restored My Fractured Soul
In seasons of intense burnout, just stroking her fur brought a profound sense of peace. God used her quiet, gentle nature as a tool to calm my anxious mind and restore my spirit.
Pepper was a gift from the Father, sent to remind me that I am deeply, unconditionally loved. Her time with me is over, but the lessons of grace she taught me will stay with me forever. And I just know that one day soon, I will make it through a day without tears!
