The man and the woman named their new kitten Amiga, which means “friend.” When Eliezer and Amiga met for the first time, Amiga was ready to establish a friendship. Eliezer, however, felt nothing but disdain and loathing for this intruder. He drew a deep breath and uttered an ominous snarl.  

Amiga had experienced no unfriendliness, hatred, or fear in her short life. Wisely, she did not press the matter. But over the next week or two, she kept up a steady pressure of friendship. She refused to harbor a grudge. It was not long before Eliezer not only accepted her, but seemed genuinely fond of her. He willingly shared his cat food and even allowed her to play with his tail.  

Abigail presents a greater challenge. She is reclusive and angry at the world. She appears from her wanderings once or twice a week. She refuses to let the other cats near her. A fierce growl rumbles spontaneously in her chest if any other feline trespasses into her personal space. Amiga is not deterred or even upset by Abigail’s hostility. She seems to feel sure that eventually even this great antagonist will join her at the cat bowl.  

This principle of sharing friendliness with everyone works just as well for us as it does for cats; in fact, it works better. The love of Christ can be magnified in us in a way Amiga will never experience. Is any antagonist so fierce that God’s love cannot heal him of his anger when he turns to the Almighty in repentance? Restoration and goodwill are waiting for Abigail and the human sinner, whenever they are ready.  

Light is stronger than darkness, warmth more powerful than cold; 
Kindness will triumph o’er hatred; love may be righteous, yet bold. 

From Paws on My Porch, by Gary Miller
© 2015 TGS International, PO Box 355, Berlin, Ohio 44610
Used by permission