(One of my favorite verses, 1 Peter 5:7, says, "casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." Sometimes caregivers feel like nobody is taking care of them.)
If I ever felt a need for God's care and His rest day, it's been since I've been in North Carolina with my brother's family. Taking care of his 94-year-old mother-in-law since her two hospitalizations last month has been a stark reminder of what it was like in my previous caregiving days with my husband Dean.
Even with four adults in the household here, we find ourselves commenting to each other repeatedly, "I'm just so tired." Keep in mind that three of these adults have full-time jobs, and one (me) is disabled and on oxygen. There are also two elementary-age boys who need fed and supervised, when they aren't in school.
When does one find time to rest with all that needs to be done? Many households, not just ones with caregiving going on, are crying out for rest. But God has provided it through the Sabbath. On that day, we can stay home from doctor appointments, not schedule home health visits, cease from making care arrangements on the phone or computer, and omit our more vigorous household chores. As much as possible, God expects us to rest, not just in Him, but from our everyday labors. God knows we need it!
Thank you, Lord, for caring so much for us caregivers. How can we not feel closer to you on this sacred day? I plan on spending more time on the porch today, listening to the birds and smelling the flowers. Every day is a gift, but the Sabbath is the day that has been wrapped up special and delivered by God for our eternal enjoyment of peaceful rest. Caregivers included.
My brother--the reason I'm in North Carolina
