“Onyx” is the name of a black tea cup poodle puppy who lives next door to us. When he arrived, he was small enough to sit on the palm of my hand. I asked his owner, Susan, if he would get much bigger, and she answered, “They told me that he will grow a little bit, but not much.” Onyx is the hit of the neighborhood among both children adults.

Recently Jack found a curly haired black poodle racing across our front yard, and after a moment of surprise, he recognized Onyx. The back yard gate had been left open, and Onyx had escaped. It was the first time either of us had seen him since he could fit into a tea cup. He has long legs and is the largest of the three small dogs that live next door.

In spite of his long legs and his boundless energy, Onyx is well loved. He is still the hit of the neighborhood; and, though he seldom makes an appearance in the front yard, my grandchildren ask, “How’s Onyx?” hoping to get to see him.

Just before God created mankind, “God created. . . all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds, and God saw that it was good.” (Genesis1:24-25)

“ ‘ It’s Dan in trouble this time,’ said Helen, ‘He’s our sheepdog but we’re so fond of him that he’s more like one of the family.’” (“Early Days in Darrowby” by James Herriot)

In His order of Creation God knew that some of His people would draw near to animals for their loyalty and nonjudgmental affection. The Bible has some very poignant pictures of animals in relationship with human beings. Balaam’s donkey opens his mouth and speaks the only wisdom Balaam hears until the angel speaks. (Numbers 22:24-31) Jesus’ very birth was announced to shepherds “abiding in the midst of their flocks of sheep at night.” (Luke 2:8) On Palm Sunday Jesus rode securely on “a colt that no one has ever ridden.” (Luke 19:30)

Animals and humans have been bonded since creation. The irresistible appeal of a small dog, of a kitten, of a magnificent horse or a powerful elephant, touches the imagination and even gives us a kindred feeling.

It’s not hard to account for Onyx’s popularity when you envision the fascination with the animal world and remember that our Creator is also the maker of the other creatures on earth. Onyx conveys joy to virtually everyone who sees him. Praise God for His creation!

Love in Him,

Prue