I’m incredibly blessed as I care for my mom. I’ve received help and encouragement from my church family, immediate family, and friends. God has provided me with a faithful husband, much caregiving help, cards, gifts, messages, phone calls, meals, and, most importantly, a community of people who pray for me. I’ve often failed to do the same for other caregivers.    

My aunt Wilma suffered severe strokes that left her bedridden for eight years. Her husband, Richard, cared for her at home. Mom and I visited. We talked to and prayed with my aunt, who could not speak. But it never occurred to me to encourage and comfort Richard.

I recently spoke with a man who shared his brother’s story; I was moved with compassion. He’s been bedridden for over fifty years, and his sister has given care since her mother’s passing several years ago. This kind of unselfish dedication is hard for me to imagine. 

My mother cared for her mother, who was wheelchair-bound for three years due to continual mini-strokes. I relieved Mom when she needed to grocery shop and pay bills. I don’t remember volunteering to care for Granny Hattie so Mom could rest or spend time with family and friends. Now that I care for my mom, I understand how I could have better comforted her during her season of caregiving.

As Jesus died on the cross, He assigned the Apostle John to be a son to His mother, Mary. From that moment until Mary’s passing, John might’ve sacrificially served. We are left to assume such a thing, but regardless of the gravity of service, John was given the vital assignment of caring for Jesus’s mother, Mary.

Caregiving is a difficult task, but I’m learning that my journey is easier compared to others. Many have ministered comfort to me in various ways. I want to encourage you to reach out to caregivers by praying, preparing meals, sending cards, sending and posting encouraging messages, and more. If someone in your family is a full-time caregiver, offer your time to give them space to rest or fellowship with family and friends.

I’ve been enlightened by the fact that caregivers need comfort. I pray you’ve been enlightened to this need as well.

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;

Who comforteth us in our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4