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Matthew 8:19 – And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. (KJV)
Matthew 15:27 – She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." (ESV)
One Sunday morning, our pastor introduced his sermon by referring to a ministry known as "Cat n Dog Theology". Having two cats at home, this idea naturally aroused my curiosity. Then, I heard the following quotation:
- A dog may look at you and think, You feed me, you pet me, you shelter me, you love me — you must be god! On the other hand, a cat can look at you and think, You feed me, you pet me, you shelter me, you love me — I must be god!
Later, I was surprised to learn that this is a large, international ministry which begins with this simple joke in its mission to call the church away from self-centredness, focusing primarily on the glory of God.
Most cat owners would agree that, in general, these adorable little creatures are rather narcissistic and aloof. But some of my favourite emails come from pet lovers showing the controlling nature of cats over dogs. One funny video clip shows dogs afraid of walking by their feline housemates; another shows timid dogs of all sizes afraid to get in their own beds while the cats are resting comfortably, like royalty.
So what does all this have to do with communicating Scripture and teaching biblical principles? Consider that both dogs and cats perceive the same information regarding their master, yet one is self-centred and the other is master-centred. Therefore, we should ask ourselves: Which attitude best describes our relationship to God and to others? How can we wholeheartedly seek Christ's will and not our own? Finally, how can we serve the Lord together with humility and love for one another?
Like dogs, let us eagerly seek to please our Master, to follow wherever He leads, and to glorify Him in all we do.
Prayer: Dear Jesus, Lord and Master, we give our hearts to You. Help us to die to self in order that Your life can be glorified in us. We ask this in Christ's name and for His sake. Amen.
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Monday, February 10, 2025 – In the Americas — Give thanks for those called to lead worship with the vulnerable and lonely in long-term-care residences. Pray that God's Word and music may bring comfort and peace to all.
fractures: "Update February 7: Jacquie had another fall while in the hospital. She has broken her collarbone so..." 
Thank you Lori.
An old topic in a new format! Thank you!!
Wonderful words.
(B.C.)
Lori, you nailed it with this devotional. Thanks for reminding me to be “dog” and not a “cat.”
Blessings.
Better to be the ‘dog’ in the house of our Master, than the ‘cat’ of Cleopatra!
Peace be with you and those you love. Amen.
So true Lori, the spiritual and the animal application. We have one of each, and the quote is right on target. Unfortunately, we are too often like the cat.
Lori, nice to see your devotional. We haven’t see one in a while. Nice analogy between cats and dogs. I hear Lou is doing well.
Very good, Lori.
Perfectly true too. I had a doberman, a few years ago, that would give my cats a wide berth.
Very interesting analogy and perspective. Thank you for sharing this food for thought.
Blessings on your week
Dear Lori
Love the analogy in this devotional. But then I’ve appreciated all your devotionals. Thanks.
So true Lori! I love both cats and dogs. Cats usually aren’t as dependent on their people either. It is a daily need to take our eyes off ourselves and seek God and be dependent on Him. Thank you again for this great devotional!
Dear Lori,
As ever, that’s a big amen sister.
May God guide us as we seek to follow His lead, in due reverence and awe.
Blessings.
Hi Lori,
Our pastor has not used cat and dog theology on which to base a sermon…good idea. We have both a cat and two dogs…the reference is perfect.
Thanks.
Dear Lori,
What an interesting devotional! I have never given a thought to how I would fit with the personality of a cat or a dog. Although I have an affinity over cats than dogs. However, spiritually, I would hope to be as a dog, following the lead of my Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.
Dear Lori,
Thank you so much for today’s devotional. I read them each morning, and sometimes one really speaks to me. Today, yours did. I like the idea of “cat and dog” theology, especially as it is one with which many – if not most – people are able to identify. I will definitely be using this illustration in a future sermon.
Blessings.
Hello.
Yes, we the dog’s “gentiles” have been blessed beyond measure, as we muse on eternal life in Jesus. We have cause to hunger and thirst for the nourishment that comes from our Lord’s throne. Finding through the Spirit of God, that us dog’s “gentiles” do not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of our God. Yes, it is good for us dog’s “gentiles” to draw near to our wonderful provider, Jesus.
(USA)
WOW! That was highly interesting, Lori. Thanks. I have never heard that expression of the difference between cats and dogs…makes sense to me. My wife and I had a cuddly bear of a St. Bernard dog eons ago. We and our children loved her. She was so obedient & lovable. However, sadly, she died long ago and we haven’t had a pet since.
Anyway, thanks again for that very interesting exposition, Lori. I love reading your Devotionals. You write well.
Blessings.
Lori, this is wonderful. Thank you.