Heaven (Part 3)Намуна

The Animal Question

Do you ever wonder if animals will be part of eternity? It’s a thought that’s been close to my heart as I watch Riley and Molly, our two bichon frises. At 15 and 13 years old, they’ve been part of our family for so long. Riley is an old boy now, and we know his time here is limited. The idea of life without him sometimes weighs on our thoughts.

But as I think about the animals we love, I’m reminded of something beautiful. God created them in the very beginning. Genesis 1 tells us that after creating the creatures of the earth, sky, and sea, 'God saw that it was good' (v. 25 NIV).

Animals weren’t an afterthought; they were part of His perfect design, reflecting His creativity and joy.

For some of us, it might be a dog or a cat, but for others, it could be a horse, a bird, or even something exotic like a lizard, or even a pet rabbit.

As a teenager, I had a couple of pet rats but can’t say I bonded with them in the same way as a dog!

People connect with animals in different ways, yet they all bring a unique sense of companionship and delight. And it’s not just pets.

Many of us love watching birds soar, dolphins play, or even deer grazing in the wild. It’s a reminder of God’s incredible creation and artistry.

It made me think of the story of Noah. God didn’t just save people from the flood; He instructed Noah to bring the animals, two by two, into the ark (see Genesis 7:2-3).

The other day I saw a funny picture of a fat lion outside the Ark with a caption that read, ‘The weather was terrible on this cruise, but the food was great, they gave me two of everything!’

That was part of His plan to preserve His creation. Doesn’t that show us how much God values and loves the animals He made? It’s a reminder that they aren’t just here for our benefit, they matter to Him.

So, what about animals in eternity? Romans 8:19-21 gives us a glimpse of hope: 'The creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed… the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay' (NIV).

This could suggest that God’s redemption plan extends beyond humanity to all of creation. And in Revelation 21:5, He promises, 'I am making everything new' (NIV). Could that include the animals who’ve brought us so much joy?

I’d like to think so. As I look at Riley and Molly, I’m reminded of how much love and comfort they’ve given our family.

They’ve shown us loyalty, companionship, and never argue back! I’d love to see them again in the new creation.

Reflect

• What do you think? Could God's eternal plans include the pets and animals who’ve been so special to us?
• What does the presence of animals in our world and lives teach us about God's creativity and care?
  

Pray

Thank God today for the animals who’ve been part of your life, whether they’re pets or wildlife.

Lord, thank You for creating the animals and for the joy they bring. Help us to trust Your promise of restoration and rest in the knowledge that whatever Heaven holds for us, Your plans are good and perfect. Amen.