God's Coaching #83

God's Coaching #83

Raccoons, beware! Each year these bandit-masked furry animals are the target of excited dogs and hunters in coon-hunting events. One of the biggest in the country is the American Coon Hunters Association (ACHA) World Hunt, which started in the mid-1940s. But there are plenty of other coon-hunting organizations too. The American Kennel Club, Professional Kennel Club, and United Kennel Club, among others, all host their annual championships.

Coon hunting, which is most popular in the South and Midwest, is big business. Many national competitions feature hundreds of coonhounds, attract thousands of spectators, and bring millions of dollars into the local economy. In events like the ACHA World Hunt, raccoons aren’t actually harmed. The man-dog hunting teams score points for “treeing” a coon—in other words, chasing a frightened raccoon up a tree. Dogs also compete for the best in show by breed. The winner of the 2010 ACHA World Hunt, which was held March 24-27 in Glasgow, Kentucky, was a young hound of the Treeing Walker breed named Gainesville Creek Tank. Way to go, Tank!

What’s the Score?

Aren’t you glad you’re not a raccoon? It’s nice to be at the top of the food chain. But seriously, think about the exclusive blessings God has given to humans over all other creatures. We possess a complex intellect and emotions. We have eternal souls. And we were made in God’s own image. No other beings in God’s creation can claim these traits. In Genesis 1, God commanded humans, “Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground” (verse 28).

While pondering these things, David wrote in Psalm 8:4-5, “What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? You have made them a little lower than the angels and crowned them with glory and honor” (NIV). In all his creation, God poured the most detail, affection, and responsibility into humans. His love for us is beyond comprehension. He has showered us with grace and allowed us to take care of his world. The Lord God Almighty wants us to rule his world and enjoy fellowship with him through Christ. Chew on that for a while!

On the Ball

Go enjoy an outdoor activity (hiking, fishing, bike riding) to marvel at God’s creation. Thank him for his special attention in creating you.

Coach’s Comment

What is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? Psalm 8:4 (NIV)