Dr. Tan Tek Seng

DAILY REFLECTION

“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
Psalms‬ ‭23‬:‭4‬ ‭

God can work through anyone and anything - even a trained dog to save life.

Hank Ford, a U.S. Marine veteran from Colorado, battled the invisible wounds of war - PTSD and the lingering effects of trauma. One morning, while alone at home, Hank experienced a silent medical emergency. His service dog, Tommy, began barking, pawing, and jumping on him, refusing to let him sleep. At first, Hank thought Tommy simply needed to go outside. But as dizziness, weakness, and lightheadedness set in, Tommy’s persistent nudging led Hank to realize his heart was racing uncontrollably.

Rushed to the hospital, Hank was diagnosed with severe atrial fibrillation. Doctors confirmed that without Tommy’s intervention, he might not have woken up - or could have suffered a massive stroke. Tommy remained faithfully by Hank’s side throughout the ordeal.

In Hank’s darkest hour, God’s presence was revealed through Tommy - a creature trained to serve, yet moved by love and loyalty. Tommy’s actions mirrored the Good Shepherd’s care: alerting, comforting, and guiding his master to safety. Glory to God who sees, who sends, and who saves.

Psalm 23:4 teaches us that while we cannot always avoid trials, we are never abandoned in them. God’s presence, His Word, and His Spirit comfort and strengthen us. Just as a shepherd remains with his sheep in the most dangerous terrain, God remains faithfully by our side. It calls us to lean on Him with unwavering trust, finding courage and peace even in life’s darkest valleys.

“God’s presence changes impossibilities into possibilities”