Author: Canadian Bible Society

Publisher: Canadian Bible Society

Published:

Total Pages: 67

ISBN-13: 1771240024

There are few things more difficult than watching a loved one being slowly transformed by an illness. As their body weakens and their personality changes, there will be days when it will be difficult to recognize the one we love. As a caregiver, the struggle to cope with the challenges involved in providing love, care, and a secure environment for a loved one can be overwhelming. Beyond seeing to your loved one’s physical and emotional needs, you are faced with acknowledging your own feelings as you maintain a steadfast and compassionate vigil during your loved one’s physical and/or mental decline. Your loved one’s illness inevitably transforms your life as well. As the illness progresses, a cycle of doubt and worry may take hold. You may become anxious and fearful of the difficulties to come; you may find yourself grieving the loss of a relationship that can no longer be what it once was. In these challenging days, your own sense of well-being is important, and you will need others to whom you can turn for support, strength, and comfort. God’s Word offers great encouragement to those caring for others, beginning with the affirmation that caregiving is an extension of Jesus’ own ministry of compassion, love, and care. Jesus said, “ ... whenever you did this for one of the least important of these followers of mine, you did it for me!” (Matthew 25.40b) This booklet is a collection of Scripture passages from which you can draw strength and comfort through the power of God’s Word. While it is designed specifically for you, we encourage you to share it with the one for whom you are providing care-perhaps by reading passages aloud at a designated time each day and inviting your loved one to join with you in repeating the comforting words of assurance. Reading and listening to God’s Word is an activity you can do together.