Family Update

My mom seemed stronger today. She was able to get out of the bed with only a little help, and sat in the wheelchair for several hours. Her breathing is still strained, but she's off the oxygen and able to speak loud enough to be heard easily. She has a good appetite, and can feed herself without help.

The doctor says she will be released on Friday, so we are preparing for that. She can't live alone anymore, so my sister has moved some of Mom's belongings to her house to make her as comfortable as possible. A therapist and a visiting nurse will be helping take care of my mother, though we don't know yet how often they will be available. We are all praying this arrangement will work out well.

Thank you, Lord, for the help we've been promised. Please give my mother strength to care for her personal needs, and help her maintain a positive outlook. Share your wisdom with those of us caring for loved ones who are suffering from aging and ill health. Amen.

Faith During Times of Stress

Back in 1995, I went through a difficult time dealing with breast cancer surgery and reconstruction while also trying to care for our 3 young children. One of the things that helped me get through each day was my faith in God's love and the belief that He has a plan for my life. I read the Bible regularly to keep my faith strong, and I wrote down the verses that made the most impact on me during that struggle.

Now I'm facing an even greater emotional battle as I try to accept the fact that no one lives forever, not even those we love most. The little notebook full of verses that I carried with me throughout 1995 is once again providing me the strength I need to look to the future with hope and joy rather than with sadness. Today I opened my notebook and found comfort in the following verse:

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. (Isaiah 46:4, NIV)

Oh, Heavenly Father, I thank you that in times of trouble and stress, we can find strength and comfort in your promises. No matter how many years pass, your love for us remains the same as when you first gave us life. You're there, ready and willing to help us through the tough times. And when we reach the end of life's journey, you'll welcome us to a place where no sorrow exists. Amen.