Whoever started the rumor that dog was man's best friend was pretty close when they made the call. For throughout the ages, mine at least, dogs have been a loyal companion, a hero at times, there when no one else would be, and like the saying says, a friend. And many famous dogs, courtesy of Hollywierd, have become famous. Rin Tin Tin, Bullet, Scooby Doo, and of course Lassie, who never seemed to be far from danger when it occurred. Which makes you wonder, was the dog cursed? Why was it she was always there when danger occurred? But from mine explosions to runaway bulls, Lassie would save the day, and in less than 30 minutes, and at no cost to the taxpayer. Where is she now that we need her most?
But forgotten in this legacy of canines, goes a non-descript dog from Kansas, that preceded all of the above. Going by the simple moniker of Toto, he was not only all of the above, but well travelled too. So how could we have overlooked this furry little dog, so underestimated that his legacy is reduced to one sentence from Dorothy, "Toto, I don't think we're in Kansas anymore." Which he already knew, by the way, for he was no dummy.
And it was after they landed in Munchkin land, and took up with her three, new outcasts, that his true character began to show. The Scarecrow who needed a brain-Toto already had one. He slyly looked behind the curtain to see the sham of a Wizard, if ever a wiz he was, Toto was more. He was able to unmask him, and allow the others to get their wishes. Stealth and cunning, he was also the first to find the Wicked Witch of the East. They don't make dogs like that in Hollyweird anymore.
The Tin Man only wanted a heart, again Toto had him beat. He stood by Dorothy when she was scared, and took her famous somewhere over the rainbow ride with her. And when no one else stood by her, he was ready to leave town with her-add adventurous to his credit list.
Ahh, the Cowardly Lion. Had it not been for Toto, who unmasked the great and powerful Oz, he would be still hiding in the forest. It took Toto's courage to make the Wicked Witch of the West proclaim, "I 'all get you, and your little dog too." If he was not a threat, why mention him? And he wasn't afraid to lead the way to Emerald City either. And when it came time for the balloon to leave, ran off the cat, and saved Dorothy from a ride to oblivion. Rescued finally by Glenda's words, "there is no place like home," which again Toto knew.
But few remember him as a fashion plate. So next time all you trendy types follow the latest 45 minute fad, and think you are so cool with a purse dog, remember it was Toto who started the craze. he was the first purse dog, way cooler than these rat sized, dog imitators that the trendy crowd insists on carrying. He rode on the back of bikes in baskets, and on the journey of a lifetime on the Yellow Brick Road-in a purse, carried by Dorothy. Take that Rodeo Drive, take that Guess jeans, and take that all you ego fed, trend following, imitators. Your purse dog style was originated in Kansas, by a farm girl, with a non-descript Cairn terrier, who looked more like a mutt. Maybe Dorothy was right, for looking back at what she started, truly Toto, you ain't in Kansas anymore. What a long strange trip it has been.
You see, Toto could have basked in all the fame, but like Abram, and his strange trip to Sodom, wanted nothing from the King, and chose not to ally himself with him. He would not accept even the smallest gift, thread from a flip flop, so he would not be in debt to him. Or owe him a favor in the future. for like Toto, Abram had character, but more importantly, he had Melchizadek's visit to intercede. He had the assurance from God that all would be taken care of him, just trust God. And I think the end justifies the means, as Abraham, his new name, made him Father Abraham-the patriarch of the Jews. Excuse me king, now what was it you have to offer?
Today you will be offered many things. Things that may sound good, that may bring you glory and recognition. Remember Toto. Unheralded, and more famous than all other screen dogs combined. And let your Abram experience with God remind you that it is all about Jesus, and not you. For if you believe in Him, you too shall do greater things, just like He promised.
Maybe dog is man's best friend, but I like it when God is my best friend. Jesus calls me friend. I like that. What does He call you? And what do you call Him? Purse dog carriers, what's in your wallet?
Heaven awaits those that believe. Dogs in heaven? You know Toto, I just don't think we will be in Kansas anymore.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot