4 out of 4 stars
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I am going to be transparent right away and say that I chose this book based on the cover. The penetrating stare of an animal I have never met before drew me in with a look that said, "You need to read this!" Anyone who has a love for dogs might find themselves in the same position, unable to resist the powerful pull of her non-verbal communication. In the opening pages, the author speaks about this when he went to a shelter in his area in search of a companion. In chapter one he writes, "I was adopted by this creature, who a scant few minutes before, had no idea who I was." This begins his relationship with Jenny, a rescue dog who needed his friendship as much as he needed hers. David Ross Sherman has compiled his thoughts into a soul touching book called What My Dog Taught Me About Jesus.
The bond between the author and his new friend begins immediately as they learn how to navigate living together. Because of the dog's history of being abandoned, she exhibits fears which start to diminish as the author proves to her that he will keep her safe. Along the same lines, she comforts him as he is dealing with PTSD and high blood pressure. With trust issues and the need for obedience training, the author weaves a great analogy of how this is like our relationship with God. He writes from a Christian perspective with scripture to complement the lessons he is teaching. For example, the Bible tells us we are to love our neighbor. He points out that this isn't always easy because we often are challenged by people who are different than we are which can create division. He uses the humorous example of Jenny not preferring a couple of cats that also inhabit the house. In chapter eleven entitled, I Hate Cats, But You Guys Are Ok, he explains the adjustment process that had to take place for the two species to coexist in peace. Throughout the book, readers will find many stories similar to this where he draws parallels between human nature and his observations of Jenny learning to adapt.
I liked the gentle tone that the author chose because many are under the wrong impression that following God as a leader will result in harsh punishment. He emphasizes the fact that love is the true foundation of the Creator and not that of a horrible taskmaster. While he has had to use a sharp tone with Jenny to get her attention at times when she is headed for a dangerous situation, his intention is to provide protection and keep her out of harm's way. This and all the other situations he describes makes this book a valuable resource for reinforcing spiritual strength, faith, and comfort.
In addition to the heartwarming stories and beautifully written words, there are pictures of Jenny in various poses at the end of each chapter. These still shots give a deeper sense of how great of a friend she is especially when she is looking quite protective. I particularly enjoyed one where she has a full smile that radiates off the page. You would never know from her blissful expression that her past had been a bit rough. Without the use of words, Jenny models for her readers that joy can remain in the heart even if there is nothing special going on externally to make one feel happy.
There wasn't anything about this book I didn't like, and with only five minor errors that can be easily fixed, I am awarding this a 4 out of 4 stars. The author has put much thought into creating a piece of literature that can be appreciated by those who desire to feel a close connection between God and humanity. If you do not like reading material that includes Christianity or the Bible, then this one may not be for you. However, I would emphasize again that the dog steals the show, and the author's humor is quite infectious.
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What My Dog Taught Me About Jesus
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