By Deacon “G”
Care, comfort and compassion: basic human needs that can only be measured by their outcomes; components of love that we should show to each other.
How many times do we seek these actions for ourselves and often all three simultaneously?
Most of us just have to think back to the last time we had a bad case of the flu. We were achy, perhaps had fever and diarrhea. We might have been hot one moment and cold the next; and we were having a rough time holding down food or even water.
Those of us who were lucky, had someone to care for us. They brought us some ice chips so that we could get a small amount of fluids down or they ran to the store to get us some drinks with electrolytes so that we wouldn’t dehydrate.
They tried to maintain a temperature in the house that was comfortable for us even though it was uncomfortable to them. They gave us extra blankets when we got the chills.
Finally, they were compassionate, showing us by their actions that they knew we were under-going something miserable, and that they would be there each step of the way to help us cope.
Sometimes we casually refer to the person who provided for our needs as our “angel on earth”, when in truth, that is the case. God actually sent someone into our lives to show us the love and care that He has for us, for the Lord says, “As a mother comforts her son, so I will comfort you.” (Psalm 66:13)
But here is the kicker. Did we take the time to thank both providers for what they did? (Let’s not forget to thank God in prayer). Whether we did or we didn’t, we have the opportunity and the responsibility to share the experience.
We can do this in a couple of ways, by our words and by our actions.
If we failed to thank our caregiver, now is the time. It’s never too late. While saying thanks will be sufficient, I believe that what is more effective is taking the time to put our thoughts in writing, and I don’t mean email. There’s just something really personal and heartfelt that comes out on paper.
Then let’s tell others, particularly our children and other family members, how much we appreciated our friend, relative or spouse’s concern and consolation during our moment of need. This is particularly complimentary if said in their presence, but will likely get back to them, in time. When it does, it will be a gift they’ll cherish, since everyone likes to feel appreciated.
Finally, we need to be prepared to take the role of caregiver, giving back and being an example to others. This is an important step in the whole process, since we all need help at some time in our lives. Our willingness to do this helps God to provide for those who may have no one to help them, for they are promised, “Cast all your worries upon him because he cares for you.” (1Pt 5:7)
How blessed are we to be able to be an instrument of God in bringing care, comfort and compassion to others!
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