Sincerity. Trustworthiness. Honesty. Reliability. Devotion. These are all meanings of loyalty.

While loyalty is not the most common word we hear like hope or faith, it’s one we can deeply embrace because of the love of our Jesus.

It’s a word that came to my heart earlier this summer after losing my dog, Chief. We’ve all heard it, right? A dog is a man’s best friend. And it’s so true. Dogs are always loyal. They’re always by your side, usually, so close they make you trip over your own feet.

Loyalty has lingered in my heart since that summer day. I can’t help to think of this word even now after suddenly losing another pet just a few days ago. I homed a kitten over the summer. I’m a dog person, not a cat person. Well, me and the kitty (Pepper, also know as “Pep”) became best friends. This cat took over my heart and was a reminder of that word that has been embedded in my heart for months now, loyalty.

We find loyalty in our companions, best friends, and yes, even our pets.

My dog, Chief, and cat, Pep, were beautiful examples of loyalty to me. I am so glad that even a dog or cat can be that simple reminder of loyalty. And even more beautiful is the loyalty right within me, and right within you, Jesus Christ.

Jesus endured it all. He continues to endure it all for us.

Jesus carries our sorrows. And He carries our joys.

Jesus is love. His unfailing love is the perfect picture of loyalty.

To be honest, I hesitated to share about losing my pets because I know some of you have much greater sorrow. But He reminded me that He cares for every sorrow, every concern. Nothing is too small. Jesus, our best friend, has the intention to care for us in every moment. And even in those moments of sorrow, there is joy that awaits. Hope that rises.

Jesus always gives us a space for our sorrow. He gives us space to share our hearts with Him, to cry, and to even laugh.

He is that loyal companion who will listen to our secrets, concerns, or excitement with great intention.

So friends, let’s press in fully to the One who is loyal. He is always sincere. Always honest. Always devoted to us. We can always rely on Him.

The One who is loyal knows. Not only does He know every sorrow, He cares.

Our loyal Savior holds our hearts so close. He is the loyal best friend who will keep our secrets safe. And He will even bring healing as we share those deep secrets with Him. We can fully trust Him with it all.

Jesus, overflowing with love and light, is with us for every sorrow and victory. He truly is the best friend of loyalty.