The Family Pet
The story of Brenda Watkins echoes the timeless teachings of Scripture. It began when Watkins, moved by compassion, adopted a dog named Missi from Two by Two Rescue, which tirelessly saved animals during the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. This act of kindness was not just a moment of charity but a revelation of purpose, much like the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. The parable speaks of a master who, before leaving on a journey, entrusts his servants with his property, each according to their ability. One servant, given five talents, doubles his master’s investment, showing his skill and dedication. Similarly, Watkins, upon adopting Missi, felt an undeniable call to use her personal gifts for the greater good.
Watkins, with her background in digital media, saw an opportunity. She and her husband Leonard harnessed their talents in technology and communication, built a website, and launched a social media presence for Two by Two Rescue. Their efforts paralleled the servant who uses his talents wisely; from a single follower, Watkins grew the organization’s reach to over 60,000 while spreading the message of rescue and love across the digital world. Watkins became known as the “pawtographer,” by capturing the essence of each animal with her camera, a talent akin to Bezalel, who is filled with the Spirit of God in wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all manner of workmanship (Exodus 31:3). Her photographs aren’t just images; they are invitations into the lives of these voiceless creatures, compelling people to offer them homes.
Each weekend, Brenda drives a two hour round trip, a journey reminiscent of the dedication of Ruth to Naomi in the Bible, showing unwavering commitment. Her work at adoption events, capturing “the picture” that could change an animal’s life, is her way of sowing seeds, much like the Sower in Matthew 13:3-9, hoping they fall on good soil and yield a plentiful harvest of love and homes. After twenty years, the impact of Brenda’s service continues to grow, much like the mustard seed in Jesus’ teachings, which, though the smallest of all seeds, grows into the largest of garden plants. Her story is a living testament to Scripture’s encouragement to use our talents not for personal gain but for the service of others, as highlighted in 1 Peter 4:10, “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” Watkins embodies the essence of an angel among us, not through wings or halos, but through her dedication, her talents, and her heart for service. Her story is an inspiration, a reminder that each one of us, through our unique abilities, can make a profound difference in the world, serving as vessels for divine love and compassion. To learn more about Two by Two Rescue, visit www.twobytworescue.com. †
