I have about 20 outside cats. In their eyes I'm like a god: I feed them, give them water, give them shelter, pet them, and, if they let me, I will treat their wounds.
When I feed them a few stand off at a safe distance--I am dangerous, you know. I am huge and I might attack. If I move out of range a bit, they'll dash up and grab a few bites, with one eye on me. If I step closer, those cats will run away.
Another group are happy to be petted while they are chowing down, but if I am outside in a different context, they watch from afar.
Some are happy to be petted while eating, but once they're through, they don't want anything more to do with me.
A handful hear me come outside in any context and wander over to see what I am doing. Some of those who are willing to be petted while they eat follow and observe at a distance.
But there is one cat who comes straight to me in any context. She will come down the lane to meet me. When it's likely I will be outside, she is waiting at the front door for me to come.
The cats treat me just like we humans treat God.
Some of us stand off at a distance, convinced God really isn't good, that He has ulterior motives or simply wants us dead. But, we're hungry, so eventually we'll eat what He provides but He'd better not expect any kind of thanks or anything like that. And if something goes wrong, He's to blame.
The next group are happy to be in His presence as long as the goodies are being dished out. They'll deign to experience His touch, but as soon as the food is gone, they're outa there.
Some are willing to come and be in God's presence when it's convenient for them.
Then, there are the ones who seek after and wait for and pursue God. Like Tiger-stripe, the cat who seeks me out, these humans enjoy more petting, more blessings, more care and love.
Is God playing favorites? Am I playing favorites?
No. Any cat/human willing to be petted will be petted and loved on.
The Favor of God is available to everyone, but it's up to each of us whether we experience it or we don't.
