Are You a Caregiver? Then You Are His Hands Extended.

When I moved from Tulsa a year ago, I knew God was directing me back to my home state of Texas – closer to my children and grandchildren, yet still close enough to get back to Tulsa should I be needed by my sister-in-law in the care of Mom (my mother-in-law). I have felt like I abandoned ship because not long after I moved away, Mom needed more care. Fortunately, Karen and George have run their business out of Mom's home so Mom isn't alone very much. Also, they live only five minutes away from Mom. Of late, however, Mom has needed extra care which has put greater demands on my dear sis and bro.

I’m so thankful that God has given "super powers" to Karen and George -- His strength, patience, and guidance along the way. When Mom became nervous about driving, on her own, years ago, gave her car keys to Karen and said “I’m through with driving.” What a wonderful announcement that was. We didn’t have to make that decision for her. And, Karen told her years ago that when she’s ready to move from her home to theirs, she should just tell them and they’ll welcome her there. Sure enough, Mom recently declared “I’m ready to move to your house!” What a sweet relief to know she made that decision herself instead of being forced to move.

Since then, Karen and George have been making room for Mom by painting rooms, moving furniture out to make room for Mom's furniture, and adding fixtures to accommodate Mom's needs. Over the last several days, Karen and I have been cleaning out closets and storage spaces for Mom and decorating her beautiful, spacious room at their home.

We’re so thankful we have the privilege of treating Mom with so much dignity that she is in the driver’s seat, so to speak – getting to select the day and time for the move. But this dignity and care, has been ongoing for many years. My sis, Karen, truly has a servant's heart. She is so devoted to Mom, being on-call 24/7 to her call and so very patient, loving and kind. She takes her to many doctor's appointments, gives her daily care (and that's a lot) and shows her such unconditional love.

Witnessing these tender moments, made me want to reach out to my FB friends who are caregivers and encourage you with this beautiful ministry of care-giving. I believe you have the Father's heart of love and compassion.

I recognize that ministry. I was the caregiver to my precious Mama for many years and into her later years, her 24-7 caregiver. Then during my Sweetheart's illness, being his 24-7 caregiver.

Caregiving should never feel like it's merely a duty or obligation. Caregiving can be welcomed into our hearts as a God-given ministry. It may be a hidden ministry that goes unnoticed by many, but it is a ministry that God sees and one that pleases Him. Jesus recognized its importance when He said, “Whoever helps one of these little ones because they are my followers will truly get his reward. He will get his reward even if he only gave my follower a cup of cold water.” Matthew 10:42.

As a caregiver, God will use your hands as an extension of His hands—to hold, to support, to embrace, to comfort, to bless, to help, to heal; He will use your words— to encourage, to build up, to speak hope, to convey truth, to strengthen faith, to deepen trust, to impart love; He will use your presence— to show care, to bring companionship, to wipe a tear, to soothe a pain, to dispel a fear, to rub a brow, to kiss a check, to hold a hand, to fluff a pillow, to reassure when there’s a setback, to celebrate when progress is made. Those actions certainly do sound like the actions and character of God.

As His servants, the ministry of caregiving means that whatever it is we do to help another, even if it means the simple act of giving a glass of water, the Lord receives it as a ministry done unto Him. How blessed we are to be able to make God's heart glad as we touch others with His love. I can imagine He is giving you applause and a standing ovation for a "job well done"!