Yesterday, one of my long time, heart-friends (Katherine) started helping my parents a few days a week in the evenings. I called her to see how everything went and the flood gates began to flow.
I was humbled and blessed by the things she said to my parents. I was crying so much that my baby girl started bringing me tissues.
Let me preface this post by saying that my husband and I knew that Katherine was going to be a godly source of healing and comfort to them. I just never expected so much to pour out of her in just a few hours!
Katherine is one of the most tender, caring people I have ever met. She has also been through more struggles than any person I have ever known. I suppose all of that pressure has produced some sweet oil … Seriously, she should write a book about survival through Christ.
Anyway, Katherine shared with my parents how much I love them. I started to weep as she talked because being in the thick of caring for others — it becomes more like a chore and honestly a dread. The sweetness takes a back seat and I am in “survival” mode. It humbled me when I heard the words shared and the tender kindness that Katherine extended to them.
Katherine kissed my Mother on the forehead and tucked her into bed before she left. How precious is that? I’m sure my parents were ready to kick me and my siblings to the curb and adopt Katherine to replace us! Ha.
My friend admitted it would have been much harder to be that way with her own Mom. I guess mothers and daughters have a lot of history between them. Sigh. But I have no doubt that Katherine is going to usher in such a greater level of the LOVE of Jesus to those two tired souls.
There is only so much a child can say to parents, but someone from the outside has a greater level of grace.
I have often felt like my family (especially my parents) really didn’t know me. I’m sure my sister does since she reads my blog (hi Sissy!), but as far as my parents are concerned — they know I go to church … that’s about it. Katherine shared a lot with them about me and the type of person I am. It blessed me to know that they would at least have a clue about my love for Jesus before they leave this earth.
I am thankful that the last two people who stayed with my parents were undependable. I don’t know how long Katherine can do this, but I am grateful for this season. I have no doubt that God’s Hand was in this decision and that He is preparing my parents through Katherine.
Would you please take a second as you close this post to lift up my parents and my family? Would you please pray that God’s love would flow between us all and any hurts would be healed? Thank you friends!
Ephesians 6:1-3
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”
God bless you today! And please remember to pray for the people of Japan. Most of them don’t know Jesus and He is the only answer.
What a great friend, and a true blessing to your parents!! Tissues, please pass the tissues.
Your parents are seeing Jesus through your friend. How wonderful.
I prayed for your parents and family.
Peace in Jesus today.
This really touched my heart, Beth! You know that I will keep you, your parents, and your entire family very close in my prayers. God Bless, sweet friend.
Always holding you and your family close to my thoughts and prayers precious sister..Praising God for His provision and bringing this tender woman into your lives to help you carry the cross of life….((hugs))
Such a sweet friend. God is working in every situation and placed her there for a specific purpose.
What a precious post, Beth! Praying for you and your sweet family.
Hugs…
Yes, I prayed and will continue
to pray for your precious parents.
I remember how it felt to have my
aging parents in such need. My
husband and I watched over them
here in our home for over ten
years before they went home to
be with the Lord. It's tough but
the grace of God sustains and
renews.
Beth, of course I'll pray for your parents.
For the last few years I was able to take on a caring role for an elderly neighbour whose children (old school friends of mine)lived too far away to be able to be "on call". Olive, the lady I looked after was a wonderful christian lady. She had had so many trials to overcome with her health and she was always graceful and appreciative of the care she recieved. It was an honor to care for her, to help her and provide for her needs. It wasn't one way though because shegave so much back to me in friendship, teaching and love. I smiled when you said that your friend kissed your mum goodnight. I always kissed Olive goodnight too.
Sadly she passed away last summer and left a huge gaping hole in our lives, but she did leave us with so many beautiful memories. It was a joy to be included n her family and I never once felt taken for granted or of no value.
To be able to extend caring to those in need is a gift given to us by God.
Beautiful Beth. A great friend. Blessings to you dear one.