Loyalty – May 04, 2003
Much has been said about being loyal to the cause. There’s a monument to a stockman’s dog in Victoria, Australia. The stockman was working in the rugged outback when he fell ill. He decided the only way he would make it out alive would be to leave his box of gear and travel light. He commanded his dog to stay and watch over the gear while he was gone; he planned on returning in just a few days. But the man was delayed for months. When he returned, the faithful dog was found dead—curled up on his master’s box. The loyalty of this dog is forever remembered—a hero for staying on task until the end.
Before we commit ourselves to be faithful unto the end, we should look closely at what we are willing to die for. Is it a few possessions? A mark in the sand? A difference of opinion? The Savior asked, “For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” We might ask, “What do we gain when we win an argument but lose a friend?”
Christ admonished us to pray for our enemies. It is possible to be patriotic to our country, to be uncompromising in our standards, but compassionate to others who may see the world differently. The devoted love of the dog to his master does demonstrate an unflagging commitment. But, we should also measure carefully what we attach our loyalties to. Are we true to the truth and loyal to God? How about a good friend or a compassionate teacher? Mothers and fathers who have done their best deserve our loyalty, even when we may disagree with them. And so also it is with the country in which we live. We should remember the sacrifices of those who have gone before us, respect those who serve us, and stand faithful for the good of all, until the very end.
Program #3846