Welcome to my world

Normally I'm writing about adventures all across the globe where God has opened doors of missionary ministry...

Since May I've had a different ministry - no less important, no less effective, no less in the eyes of God: I'm caring for my mother.

This is a concept largely lost in the western world. We have "places" that care for the elderly, instead of family caring for family. I'll admit, I was not able to care for my father before he passed away in 2001 - he was a cantankerous ol' coot who wasn't about to listen to any of his offspring.... God's mercy prevailed and he accepted Christ as his Saviour 7 hours before he died, while lying in a hospital bed.

Mom is a far different story than dad. Mom accepted Christ a dozen years ago and lives by grace each day. My sister, Barbarah and I are committed to care for mom as long as we are physically and medically able. Right now that means full-time care because mom is unable to walk on her own after she fell and broke her foot a few weeks ago. But, I'll give her credit, because she is really trying to be independent and not giving up. She does what she can and we do the rest.

This morning I realized that Barbarah is somewhat similar to Mary - she is a great companion for mom... and I'm the Martha on the scene - caring for the house. We are both learning lots from each other, even tho it's not an easy situation. Mom is pretty gracious throughout each of our mood-swings (tho I'm having most of those). Barbarah has cared for mom constantly throughout quite a number of years and medical emergencies. I swoop in every now and then and lend a hand as I've been able to. Usually that's several weeks. Now that it's going on month 4 I feel the weight of responsibility each and every day - it's been a difficult adjustment for me - the single missionary.

Grace is what I need each day - don't we all?

The photos: Our house, a welcome stone I painted, Mom and her puppy, Bridget