We have a cat named Tilley.  My youngest daughter Chloe stayed on us for months. One night after eating at our favorite, cheap Mexican restaurant the kids went next door to a pet store. This particular store was the final stop for Shelter animals. If they didn't find an owner then the next step was the needle. By the time Aimee and I walked in the store Chole had focused in on one particular cat about 6 months old. She was a beautiful, buff color and stood out from the rest. She was not oversized or overhairy. I was attrated, I admit, but also determined not to give in. Then, we saw the sign. Above her cage it read, "URGENT" and underneath that, "SPECIAL, HALF PRICE NOW!"

What's a man to do? Of course I knew her fate if we didn't rescue her. Yes, there were some cute things about her. But, what sold me more than any was her status. She was caged and bound for destruction (to put it frankly) and she had an advocate who was in love with her and wanted her free (Daddy, pleeeeaaaase...) Now, Tilley the Cat is a member of our family. She roams with ease, gets in trouble, makes messes in her litter-box and is endeared to all of us. Sometimes she's fussy and scratches you, occassionaly she wants to snuggle. She loves to be noticed.

I am amazed at how much this has been a picture of Redemption for me. I am teaching through Abraham this semester and am overwhelmed with God's pursuing, reaching, finding, never-ending, blessing, I'm gonna love you no matter what redemption. He is set on blessing Abraham and He is set on blessing the world. The phrase Redemption Junkie blurted out of my mouth the other night with no forethought. That's what He is! He is a Redemption Junkie, addicted to our good. I think I would be a bit less cynical and pessimistic, a bit slower to anger, a bit more gracious with others if this drug got in my veins.