A headline in a Chicago paper asks the question, “Where do you draw the line with pet care costs?” The article explains that the odds have never been better for sick pets. In 2001, Americans spent $19 billion on healthcare for pets—up 71 percent from the $11.1 billion spent in 1996, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Animals are now receiving chemotherapy, hip replacements, and even kidney transplants.

Ultrasounds, endoscopies, and laser surgeries are becoming routine. Primary care veterinarians now refer patients to veterinary surgeons, oncologists, dentists, and ophthalmologists.

No matter how much you are willing to pay for Fido or Fifi, one thing is for sure, when it comes to His children, God paid the ultimate price. He sent His sinless Son to die on the cross for our sins. This gift is so great, so awesome in its magnitude, that our finite minds could never fully comprehend it. While we might be surprised at the price some people are willing to pay for their pets, we should always be surprised at the price God was willing to pay for us.

Have you thanked Him lately? Why don’t you take the next several minutes and thank Him for sending Jesus to die for you?