In August, 2006, the Scrivener family of San Antonio lost Abbey, their 14-year-old family dog. The day after Abbey passed away, the Scrivener’s 4-year-old daughter, Meredith, was very sad. She cried and told her mom how much she missed her pet. Then she asked her mom if she could write a letter to God so that He would recognize Abbey when she got to heaven. Mrs. Scrivener wrote the following note, which Abbey dictated.

Dear God, 

Will you please take care of my dog? She died yesterday and is with you in heaven. I miss her very much. I’m happy that you let me have her as my dog even though she got sick. I hope you will play with her. She likes to swim and play with balls. I am sending a picture of her so when you see her you will know that she is my dog. I really miss her.

Love, Meredith

Mrs. Scrivener placed the letter in an envelope with a picture of Abbey with Meredith. They addressed it to God/Heaven with their return address. Meredith insisted that they include several stamps because it would take a lot for the letter get to heaven. Mrs. Scrivener mailed the letter, but didn’t expect to hear from God.

Several days later Abbey asked if God had gotten the letter yet. Mrs. Scrivener presented Abbey with a pretty package wrapped in gold paper that had been left on the front porch. It was addressed “To Meredith” in unfamiliar handwriting. Meredith opened it and discovered a book by Mr. Rogers titled, When a Pet Dies. The letter Mrs. Scrivener and Meredith had written was taped inside the front cover. On the opposite page, the photo of Abbey and Meredith was attached with the following note:

Dear Meredith,

Abbey arrived safely in heaven. Having the picture was a big help and I recognized her right away. Abbey isn’t sick anymore. Her spirit is here with me just like it stays in your heart. Abbey loved being your dog. Since we don’t need our bodies in heaven, I don’t have any pockets to keep your picture in so I’m sending it back to you in this little book for you to keep and have something to remember Abbey by. Thank you for the beautiful letter and thank your mother for helping you write it and sending it to me. What a wonderful mother you have. I picked her especially for you. I send my blessings every day and remember that I love you very much. By the way, I’m easy to find. I am wherever there is love.

Love, God

What a beautiful reminder that giving isn’t just about dollars and cents. It’s not reserved for those with big bank accounts. In fact, everyone can be a giver because God has given everyone something to share. Meredith’s special angel possessed time and words of encouragement for a little girl. He just took time to notice a need.

What has God given you that you can share? Be a giver today.