Jewel # 312 (Feb. 21, 2018)

“And they shall be Mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I

make up MY JEWELS.”

(Malachi 3:17)

To my dear grandchildren

Amazing Sled Dogs

“In the Creator’s hand is the soul of every living thing,

and the breath of all mankind.”

(Job 12:10)

Every March one of the world’s most interesting races takes place.  It covers 1000 miles of snow- and ice-covered land, rivers and lakes between Anchorage and Nome, Alaska.  This is perhaps the toughest of all races ever run and takes the competing teams two weeks or more to finish.  The people involved run most of the way at the rear of their heavily loaded sleds.

These sleds are pulled by a dozen or more strong dogs, usually including Alaskan malamutes and Siberian huskies, all of which have been trained for months by their owners.  The dogs are selected for strength, endurance and ability to work together in teams.  All have thick fur, enabling them to withstand the extremely cold conditions.  This thick fur has coarse outer hair and another coat of fine hair next to the skin so that they never get “soaked to the skin.”  When resting or sleeping their heavily furred tails wrap around their bodies, helping to keep them warm.

But it is not only in this amazing race that sled dogs are needed; they are needed for more practical purposes in the freezing climates of Greenland, Europe and Asia as well.

Trappers and prospectors, for instance, could not get along without them in places where no other transportation is available.  Natives of those areas also find them a real help in getting around in cold winter months.

Many of these sled dogs look fierce and untamed and occasionally fight between themselves, but they are usually friendly with their master.  Some owners take special care of them when on trails of harsh snow and ice, putting special boots on their feet and ankles, but leaving the toes uncovered.  This is because they have very thick fur on their toes, and their strong claws give them a good grip on slippery surfaces.

But it is not only in the frozen north that sled dogs are popular.  In parts of Europe and other countries, dogs of various varieties pull carts loaded with cans of milk, firewood and other items, as well as children enjoying a ride.  At times just one dog will pull these wheeled carts.

As we consider different animals, it’s not difficult to see how the Creator has designed each one in a special way for its own life pattern.  More importantly, we should consider how He has provided for each of us in a special way.  The Bible tells us in many places how He cares for us.  Here is one: “Many, O Lord my God, are Thy wonderful works . . . and Thy thoughts which are to us-ward. . . .  They are more than can be numbered” (Psalm 40:5).  

Have you ever thanked Him for His loving care over you?  

Love you all - Grandpa