Letter from Jon, August 2026 

 

'Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.' 

Gen 28:16

 

Dear Liberty Family and Friends

 

Apologies to those who don't like dogs, but a week ago Fiona and I took delivery, so to speak, of a new puppy.  Bruce is a 15 week old Schnoodle (a mix of a Schnauzer and a Poodle) and he has already changed our lives and our home significantly.  It has been over two years since we said 'goodbye' to our much-loved Fergus and, having got used to life again without a dog, it seemed that the time was right to bring four paws back into our life.  We, of course, were a little naïve (and out of practice) in what effect a new puppy would have in our lives. With a little help from family, Amazon next day delivery, Pets at Home and numerous puppy training videos, however, we are starting to get the hang of this and Bruce is a delight.

 

Anyway, one of things I love about having a dog in the home and the thing I missed most in losing Fergus, was his constant companionship. Dogs see the best and the worst of you.  They are there in the celebrations of life, in the joyful, hope-filled times.  They are also there in the darkest days, in the trials and challenges.  As one who likes to pray out loud, whether I am alone at home or out walking in the park, having a dog beside you means they hear your joys and sorrows and, being dogs, they pick up on your mood, your mental and physical state.

 

Now I know that this is a bit of a generalisation and I hope this doesn't seem irreverent, but I have always thought that God gives us dogs to remind us a little of what he is like. Dogs have an enthusiasm for life.  They get excited each day going for the same walk, eating the same food, doing the same things.  They seem to be the same day in, day out, regardless of whether we are having a good or a bad day.  They see us at our best and worst and still love us.  They seem to sense when life is tough and offer comfort or distraction.  They are quick to forgive. They feel like constant companions. 

 

Having spoken recently on the verse at the start of this letter, words uttered by Jacob after his dream, I am aware as we go into a new season of how important it is to 'practise the presence of God', to be consciously aware of God with us in every part of our day; in our work and play, our home, our streets, our interactions with neighbours, colleagues, family, friends and strangers.  My hope in the days and years to come, personally, is that Bruce will be there alongside me in all the ups and downs of life and I know that he will be the reason for many conversations in the park with other dog walkers. My prayer, in the same way, is that we will all be aware of God's constant and consistent, loving, caring, forgiving, life-giving presence in every part of our life.

 

Love from a slightly besotted dog owner

 

Jon x