"Well, be sure to keep Pudge locked inside the yard," Mom told Trent. "Mr. Crossley hates dogs, you know, and we don't want to offend him. Besides, he's been losing chickens lately, and he's threatened to shoot any dog he sees on his place."

When Trent arrived home a few days later, he went to the back yard and whistled for Pudge, but there was no happy bark to answer him. Looking around, he saw that the gate was ajar-and Pudge was gone! "Mom!" called Trent, running into the house, "the gate got open somehow, and Pudge is missing. I'm going to look for him." Whistling and calling, Trent bounded off in search of his dog. He heard barking from the direction of Mr. Crossley's property, so he quickly headed that way. He arrived just in time to see Mr. Crossley taking aim at Pudge. "Stop! Stop!" screamed Trent. He threw himself at his pet just as the gun went off.

Later, Mr. Crossley talked to Trent's mother at the hospital. "I feel awful!" he said. "I never meant to shoot the boy. He jumped right in the way to save his dog!"

Trent's mother nodded. "I know. He loves Pudge so much!" she said. "Thank God, it's only a flesh wound. The doctor says Trent can come home tomorrow." She paused, then added thoughtfully, "You know, Pudge trespassed, but Trent was wounded. This reminds me of myself. I trespassed against God-I sinned. I was doomed for eternal death, but Jesus stepped in and took my place. The Bible says, 'He was wounded for my transgressions.' He took my place on Calvary's cross-and He took your place, too, Mr. Crossley. He loves you that much."

Mr. Crossley was listening intently. "I sure don't see why," he murmured, "but I'd like to hear more about this."