Alzheimer's Ministry Update-Espanol

Alzheimer's Ministry Update  English

ÚLTIMA REUNIÓN DEL MES

Es un privilegio ser parte de esta iglesia y con las personas que reflejan la gracia de Dios.
Mientras que las relaciones dentro de la iglesia de cambio debido a circunstancias que todavía pueden estar seguros de la parte especial y propósitos de nuestros roles.
¿Por qué estamos tan atraídos a ser parte de esta iglesia?
1. Para traer gloria a Dios (Efesios 1: 6). Cada vez que nos reunimos, nos refleja la misericordia y la gracia de Dios. Cada uno de nosotros tiene una historia de esa gracia.
2. Para demostrar la gracia de Dios (Ef. 2: 7).
"Que en los siglos venideros podría mostrar las abundantes riquezas de su gracia en su bondad para con nosotros en Cristo Jesús.
3. Nos da la oportunidad a las buenas obras. (Ef. 2:10)
"Porque somos obra de sus manos, creados en Cristo Jesús para hacer las buenas obras que Dios ha preparado de antemano, que debemos vivir en ellos."
4. Para demostrar la unidad y relaciones restauradas. (Ef. 2:15)
"Aboliendo en su carne las enemistades, que es la ley de los mandamientos expresados ​​en ordenanzas, para que en sí mismo de los dos un solo y nuevo hombre, haciendo la paz"
"Cada persona aquí es un reflejo de la misericordia de Dios" Estamos aquí para dar y recibir aliento!
Un tiempo de reflexión
1. ¿Cómo, pues nuestro papel de prestación de cuidados y su participación en el cambio de la iglesia cuando se nos hace difícil continuar en la participación previa?
2. ¿De qué manera pueden todavía permanecer conectado a la iglesia cuando nos alejábamos de las actividades debido a la prestación de cuidados?
Mientras que los seres queridos y cuidadores pueden no ser aptos para el servicio de la misma manera que lo hacían antes, eso no quiere decir que no pueden todavía ser útiles.

• Para la "casa unida", podría significar un ministerio de oración más proactivo cuando usted se encuentra un tanto de forma aislada. Dar / enviarles una lista activa / semanal de peticiones de oración.
• Busque su sabiduría y extraer de sus experiencias que han adquirido en la vida.
• Llegar a ellos y visitarlos en sus hogares.
• Tener conversaciones espirituales acerca de las glorias por delante de ellos.
• El uso de sus dones para el beneficio de otros que Dios ha provisto a este grupo.
• Transmisión en vivo de los servicios puede proporcionar una manera de conocer a nuestros pastores a través de sus mensajes y su pasión por la Palabra de Dios.

Mantenerse al día con nuestras peticiones de oración, y el papeleo ... conocer a Andrea. Ella tomó recientemente esta terminado para los Annans, que nos sirve muy bien desde 2010! Gracias Garald- y Barbara.

PRÓXIMA REUNIÓN: Sábado, 25 de junio 2016 09 a.m 370 habitaciones - Tercer Piso Torre Bldg. Tiempo devocional ~ Culto Desayuno ~ ~ Intercambio de Oración Por favor, dar el pastor Rick una llamada, si usted está planeando traer a un ser querido, por primera vez y le gustaría tener un poco de ayuda con ellos durante nuestra reunión. (Rick McLean 818-909-5519) Recordando a James Phillips El 2 de mayo, la fe de James se convirtió en la vista. James usa para asistir a las reuniones con su esposa Kathleen. A pesar de que tenía demencia, él cantaría junto durante el tiempo de adoración y toque el ritmo. Él asentía con la cabeza en el acuerdo durante la enseñanza de la Palabra. Echaremos de menos su cara sonriente, pero agradecidos de que su mente es todo, en presencia del Señor. Se representa aquí Carole Ann, en el funeral de su madre. Su madre, María Thomason, falleció el 10 de mayo de 2016. Carole se hizo cargo de su madre, en su delicado estado de salud, y estamos contentos de que ella es una parte de nuestro ministerio. Carole era bendita, al igual que el resto de nosotros, como familia y amigos compartieron recuerdos de María durante el servicio. ... QUE EN LA CRUZ Mi carga GUSTO TENIENDO Se desangró y murió Para llevar mi pecado ... ENTREVISTA JUAN CHESTER - "cuando el sufrimiento se mueve en" Mientras que en el Seminario del Maestro, John era una parte de nuestro ministerio a partir apoyo demencia en Grace Community Church. Ahora él es el pastor de la iglesia de la biblia de Piedmont. El Señor es sostener y enriquecer el Chesters especialmente a través de su esposa, enfermedad crónica de Cassie. Escucha esta Glory Libros podcast para escuchar cómo Dios es más que suficiente en sus vidas. Se le anima! Haga clic aquí para escuchar. ENLACES ÚTILES Los 10 mejores consejos para visitar a alguien con la enfermedad de Alzheimer. Infecciones del tracto urinario y la demencia Proyecto hijos ayuda a su madre (y la familia) Recuerde

por Rebecca Schoof

En cuanto a nuestros altos seres queridos, podemos ver cómo su piel ha cambiado y sigue cambiando con cada año que pasa. El más frágil su piel se vuelve, mayor es el riesgo de tener lo que se conoce como lágrimas en la piel. Las lágrimas de la piel puede ser aterrador para usted y su ser querido alto. Exudado de la piel son áreas muy molestas y dolorosas en la piel peelings esencialmente de vuelta después de un ser querido choca o se mueve de cierta manera, incluso desde una silla de ruedas a la cama. El más frágil su piel se vuelve, mayor es el riesgo de tener lo que se conoce como lágrimas en la piel. En cuanto a nuestros altos seres queridos, podemos ver cómo su piel ha cambiado y sigue cambiando con cada año que pasa. La piel de muchos adultos mayores empieza a parecerse a un pañuelo de papel a medida que envejecen. Se vuelve muy delgada y frágil, de tal manera que podemos ver cada uno de los vasos sanguíneos que corre por sus cuerpos. Este adelgazamiento de la piel es un resultado de los cambios en las capas de la piel a medida que la edad y como resultado de otros factores también. Hay cosas que podemos hacer para ayudar a prevenir la piel lágrimas y el dolor asociado con ellos. "Muchas personas mayores tienen contusiones que parecen aparecer durante la noche y las lágrimas que son inexplicables. 80% de las lágrimas de la piel ocurren en las manos de nuestros mayores y los brazos. Si consiguen un desgarro de la piel donde la piel está agitando, pero aún mantiene firme, limpiar la herida y luego vuelva a colocar la piel sobre el área abierta antes de cubrirla. Evitar abrir tirando de ella de nuevo al cambiar el apósito. Esta piel suelta se curan mejor si no se retira ". (siempre con un profesional del médico para el tratamiento-ver * nota al final del artículo) Use almohadillas antiadherentes. 3M Coban, es la mejor envoltura de auto-adhesivo para mantener las almohadillas antiadherentes en su lugar. Http://www.amazon.com/Coban-Self-Adherent-Wrap-yd-Box/dp/B00112RP2C Coban viene en colores agradables Once the skin is damaged, it takes an older person longer to heal, too, which can lead to pain and potential infection of the affected site of the wound and cellulitis, although this is not as common as one would imagine. Ways Seniors Get Skin Tears There are many ways that seniors can get a skin tear, including bumping on something when they walk in the home or outside, hitting a wheelchair, transferring from one place to another, and falls or a strong grip from a care giver. Skin Tear Prevention Strategies There are some things that can help our senior's skin withstand bumps and bangs. • Wear long sleeves and long pants to protect them when they bump as much as possible • Be careful removing any adhesives, like band-aids or tapes, from their skin • When they're sitting in their favorite chair, pad them with pillows • Upholster any sharp edges in the home (some child safety interventions can work in this application as well) • Moisturize their skin daily with emollient lotions; especially helpful are those that contain nourishing ingredients such as vitamins, fatty acids like omega 3s, and antioxidants • Drinking plenty of fluids • Observe for and control pain (especially if they can't express it) • When moving or transferring, handle them carefully • Cleanse skin with pH balanced soaps but don't scrub or use hot water; use only lukewarm water on tender skin • Unclutter the living environment to prevent bumping • Ensure adequate lighting so they don't hit something they can't see • Use elastic sleeves, called geri-sleeves , that give more protection; cover wrists including thumb hole • Reposition so that they are not putting pressure on sensitive areas • Use heel or elbow protectors • Wear proper foot covering in house too *NOTE: (Some of the above information was gleaned from several web-sites as well as first hand experience in my present and past experiences in care giving. Double-check with your medical professional for your individual situation.--rJs.)

Copyright © 2016 de Grace Community Church, Todos los derechos reservados.

THE WHITE T-SHIRT: Father's Day Tribute

So it's no surprise that a new study found that men wearing plain white T-shirts are considered more attractive.

Science says it's because the shirt can "create an illusion that broadens the shoulders and slims the waist, producing a more V-shaped body, which is a top sign of masculinity."
" A man in a (correctly fitting) plain white T-shirt, by virtue of rendering the canvas of his attire so ambiguous, offers maximum room for projection into the origins of his mystique."
Dad could have been a lot of things: He could have been into rockabilly or other retro trends. He may have been cheap. He may have been broke. He may have been
  unimaginative.
He could  have been some excitingly iconic movie star of the era as James Dean, Marlin Brando or John Wayne. You know, if you're into that sort of thing.
Yes, I can understand why his sisters thought he could be a movie star.  You see my father was one of the first most handsomest man I have ever met.

My father was and is an absolute classic.  Dad has always been his own kind of guy.  The nonchalant, appealing and one of my favorite things my Dad could wear, a white tee shirt, the most generic thing around, the uniform of youth in the 50's.
It still happens to be the greatest thing in the world to this day at his age and remains a serious staple piece of his clothing.
The simplicity, comfort and the surpassing beauty of the plain white T-Shirt evokes many childhood memories.

Yes, he could have been a lot of things but what endeared him most was his welcoming smile, his sense of purpose, his love for God, and the love he showed to those early Mexican Indians in the outback of Mexico and yes that iconic white T-Shirt.
So was his passion to share the GOOD NEWS.
A quick grasp of the language and blending in with culture, dark hair and brown eyes, sun-tanned complexion allowed him to enter areas of endless possibilities during a time of unrest and resistance to the gospel during those early years.                               
He would come home tired, dusty, dirty,and sweaty from a trek to a distant village with the satisfaction that he had encouraged someone or introduced others to the Gospel. Those white T-Shirts would soon be drying on the clothes line or in the sun strewn over bushes.  White T-Shirts that had seen many adventures.

FRAGILE SENIOR SKIN

Fragile Skin

Looking at our senior loved ones, we can see how their skin has changed and continues to change with each passing year.
The more fragile their skin becomes, the greater the risk for getting what is known as skin tears.

Skin tears are annoying and very painful areas where the skin essentially peels back after a loved one bumps it or moves certain ways, even from a wheelchair to the bed.
Skin tears can be scary to both you and your senior loved one.

There are things we can do to help prevent skin tears and the pain associated with them.
The skin of many older adults begins to look like tissue paper as they age. It becomes very thin and fragile, such that we can see each blood vessel coursing through their bodies.
This thinning skin is a result of changes in the layers of the skin as we age and as a result of other factors as well.

"Many seniors have bruises that seem to pop up overnight and tears that are unexplained. 80% of skin tears occur on our senior’s hands and arms. If they get a skin tear where the skin is flapping but still holding firm, clean the wound and then replace the skin over the open area before covering it. Avoid pulling it open again when changing the dressing. This loose skin will heal better if not removed."

Replaced skin over open area

 Use non-stick pads.  3M Coban, is the best self adhesive wrap to keep the non-stick pads in place.  http://www.amazon.com/Coban-Self-Adherent-Wrap-yd-Box/dp/B00112RP2C

Coban comes in delightful colors

Once the skin is damaged, it takes an older person longer to heal, too, which can lead to pain and potential infection of the affected site of the wound and cellulitis, although this is not as common as one would imagine.
Ways Seniors Get Skin Tears
There are many ways that seniors can get a skin tear, including bumping on something when they walk in the home or outside, hitting a wheelchair, transferring from one place to another, and falls or a strong grip from a care giver.

Skin Tear Prevention Strategies
There are some things that can help our senior’s skin withstand bumps and bangs.
    •    Wear long sleeves and long pants to protect them when they bump as much as possible
    •    Be careful removing any adhesives, like band-aids or tapes, from their skin
    •    When they’re sitting in their favorite chair, pad them with pillows
    •    Upholster any sharp edges in the home (some child safety interventions can work in this application as well)
    •    Moisturize their skin daily with emollient lotions; especially helpful are those that contain nourishing ingredients such as vitamins, fatty acids like omega 3s, and antioxidants
    •    Drinking plenty of fluids
    •    Observe for and control pain (especially if they can’t express it)
    •    When moving or transferring, handle them carefully
    •    Cleanse skin with pH balanced soaps but don’t scrub or use hot water; use only lukewarm water on tender skin
    •    Unclutter the living environment to prevent bumping
    •    Ensure adequate lighting so they don’t hit something they can’t see
    •    Use elastic sleeves, called geri-sleeves , that give more protection; cover wrists including thumb hole
    •    Reposition so that they are not putting pressure on sensitive areas
    •    Use heel or elbow protectors
    •    Wear proper foot covering in house too
(Some of the above information was gleaned from several web-sites as well as first hand experience in my present and past experiences in care giving.--rJs.)

Isaiah 41:13 - For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.

Alzheimer's Ministry Update: Spanish

Alzheimer's Ministry Update  For English click here

ÚLTIMA REUNIÓN DEL MES "¿Por qué ser parte de la iglesia, y en concreto, este ministerio?" "POR ESTA RAZÓN" Para los próximos meses devocionales, nos centraremos en el papel de la iglesia en nuestras vidas a través de la perspectiva de Pablo en Efesios, reflexionar sobre cómo Dios usa a su iglesia. Nos animaron a pensar en el tiempo pasado en nuestras reuniones ministerio como un "oasis de remitente" para compartir en nuestras experiencias, para proporcionar comodidad, el ser fortalecidos en la Palabra. Vamos a considerar el valor de tener reuniones como ésta: ¿por qué queremos ser parte de una iglesia? ¿Por qué queremos estar conectados ...? ¿Por qué comprometernos?   Estaremos contemplando perspectivas acerca de la iglesia y lo que Dios está haciendo específicamente para llevar a cabo su gloria. Vamos a estar buscando maneras increíbles en el que Dios está trabajando personalmente en la vida. Efesios 2:10 Porque somos hechura suya, creados en Cristo Jesús para buenas obras, las cuales Dios preparó de antemano para que anduviéramos en ellas. Efesios 1: 13-16 Pablo estaba agradecido y orar por la iglesia porque Dios está trabajando en la vida de las personas para llevar a sí mismo la gloria. Efesios 3: 1 y 2: 21-22 Pablo estaba dispuesto a sufrir por la iglesia porque Dios está trabajando en las personas y la construcción de ellos hacia arriba. Efesios 3: 11-15 Pablo oraba por la iglesia porque Dios da seguridad y acceso a su pueblo. Pablo quería ser parte de todo lo que Dios estaba haciendo. Dios está trabajando en cada persona aquí en Grace Community Church también. Tuvimos la oportunidad de compartir la forma en que habíamos visto de forma individual la gloria de Dios en la pantalla a través del cuerpo de Cristo. Tuvimos un tiempo de discusión acerca de las perspectivas equivocadas que pueden colarse junto con la pesada carga de los cuidados, como un sentido de derecho, o sentimiento de inutilidad en el cuerpo de Cristo. RODEADO POR LA VERDAD Si su ser querido ya no puede leer, pero que desea mantener la verdad bíblica como parte de su / su vida, aquí es una maravillosa manera de hacer eso. La serie Música y Majestad muy bien producido por Discovery House Music DVD están llenos de hermosa fotografía de la naturaleza, himnos favoritos, y la palabra de Dios. Varios de nosotros en el grupo han sido capaces de utilizar estos y que los recomiendo. Son alrededor de $ 15 cada uno. Aquí está el enlace si desea obtener más información ... Enlace a Amazon Estamos muy agradecidos por el ministerio de música de Juan a nuestro grupo. DÍA DE LA MADRE FELIZ TARDÍO A TODOS NUESTROS QUERIDOS MADRES ABUELAS Y GRAN-abuelas! PRÓXIMA REUNIÓN: Sábado, 28 de mayo 2016 09 a.m. 370 habitaciones - Tercer Piso Torre Bldg. Tiempo devocional ~ Culto Desayuno ~ ~ Intercambio de Oración Por favor, dar el pastor Rick una llamada, si usted está planeando traer a un ser querido, por primera vez y le gustaría tener un poco de ayuda con ellos durante nuestra reunión. (Rick McLean 818-909-5519) BUENA lee por los cuidadores Periódicamente repost esta lista de libros recomendados. Mientras que algunos de nosotros hemos encontrado estos libros a ser muy útil, esta lista no está oficialmente aprobada por GCC Título Autor Subtitular Si Dios es bueno Alcorn, Randy La fe en medio del sufrimiento y del mal Una promesa cumplida McQuilkin, Robertson La historia de un amor inolvidable El vivir una vida de esperanza Busenitz, Nathan Mantenerse enfocado en lo que realmente importa ¿Cuánto tiempo oh Señor? Carson, DA Reflexiones sobre el sufrimiento y el mal En segundo lugar olvido Al oeste, el Dr. Benjamín Recordando el poder del Evangelio durante la enfermedad de Alzheimer La culpa es de Cerebro Welch, Ed Desequilibrios químicos distintivas, trastornos cerebrales, y Desobediencia Aprender a hablar la enfermedad de Alzheimer Coste, Joanne Koenig Un enfoque innovador para todo el mundo frente a la enfermedad ¡Ayuda! Alguien amor de I tiene enfermedad de Alzheimer Howard, Deborah "Folleto" Use zapatos cómodos Rosenberger, Peter Sobrevivir y prosperar como un cuidador Ayuda para el cuidador Emlet, Michael R. "Folleto" frente a los desafíos con comprensión y Fuerza Mi viaje en la enfermedad de Alzheimer Davis, Robert Insights votos para la familia y amigos - Una historia verdadera Libros de memoria y otros sistemas Cuing gráficas Bourgeois, Michelle S. Comunicación práctica y ayuda a la memoria para Adultos con Demencia Me importa Cepillo, Jennifer A. Mills, Kerry C. Un manual para los socios de cuidado de personas con demencia. Cuando Dios no lo hace Arreglalo Historia, Laura Encontrar la alegría en Dios, y no nuestras circunstancias. Muy alentador. La viuda sin distracciones Cornualles, Carol Vivir para Dios después de perder a su marido. Laurie ha revisado la mayor parte de estos libros en su sitio web si desea aprender más sobre ellos. Http://colorsbylaurie.com/book-reviews LA CONFERENCIA ELISHA FUNDACIÓN Este próximo fin de semana, mayo 13-14 aquí, en nuestro propio Grace Community Church Dios ha proporcionado numerosas oportunidades para ministrar a las personas con necesidades especiales y ha bendecido ricamente el trabajo de la Fundación Eliseo. La Conferencia de la Fundación Eliseo para la Discapacidad es otro medio para perseguir nuestra misión de los afectados por la discapacidad. Estamos trabajando con nuestros oradores invitados para coordinar con oración y cuidadosamente una serie de enseñanzas que llegará en los desafíos bíblicos y perspectivas padres y cuidadores de las personas con discapacidad están deseando oír. Profundidad de los contenidos y la riqueza de la comunión marcará este evento. Consejos bíblicos ayudará a aplicar la Palabra de Dios para pruebas de la vida y de nuestro papel como cuidadores, padres, esposos, padres, madres y esposas. Esta conferencia, proporcionada por Grace Community Church y la Fundación Eliseo , se pretende mezclar el gran recurso y el beneficio de una conferencia con un ambiente más íntimo y personal. De conformidad con el que están coordinando un horario que permite tiempo para conectarse con otros padres y cuidadores en la asistencia, así como el tiempo para hablar con nuestros altavoces. Asesoramiento bíblico será ofrecido por los pastores y laicos formados en asesoramiento bíblico. Las sesiones de trabajo y oportunidades de asesoramiento son opcionales. Se pondrá a disposición a través de inscripciones individuales de acceso para cualquiera de estos servicios en el inicio de la conferencia. No hay ningún costo para asistir a la conferencia, pero se debe registrar. Haga clic aquí para obtener más información o llame al: 541-728-3690 Una estancia PEQUEÑO EN LA TIERRA hacer el cielo más celestial. 6 may - Tarde Mañana y tarde Lecturas Diarias por Charles Spurgeon

Una pequeña estancia en la tierra hará que el cielo más celestial Nada hace descansar tan dulce como fatiga.; nada hace que la seguridad tan agradable como la exposición a las alarmas. La copa Cuasia amargo de la tierra dará un condimento al nuevo vino que brilla en las copas de oro de gloria. Nuestra armadura maltratadas y el rostro lleno de cicatrices van a hacer más ilustre nuestra victoria anteriormente, cuando nos da la bienvenida a los asientos de los que han superado el mundo. No debemos tener comunión plena con Cristo, si no lo hicimos por un tiempo de estancia de abajo, porque Él fue bautizado con un bautismo de sufrimiento entre los hombres, y debemos ser bautizados con el mismo, si queremos compartir su reino. La comunión con Cristo es tan honorable que el dolor es un precio más dolorosa luz para poder adquirirlo. Otra razón de nuestra persistente aquí es para el bien de los demás. Nosotros no deseamos entrar en el cielo hasta que nuestro trabajo está hecho, y puede ser que estamos todavía ordenados para servir a la luz almas ignorantes en el desierto del pecado. Nuestra estancia prolongada aquí es, sin duda, para la gloria de Dios. Un santo trató, como un diamante bien cortado brilla tanto en la corona del Rey. Nada refleja tanto honor en un obrero como una prueba prolongada y severa de su trabajo, y su resistencia triunfante de la prueba sin ceder en cualquier parte. Porque somos hechura de Dios, en quien será glorificado por nuestras aflicciones. Es por el honor de Jesús que padecemos la prueba de nuestra fe con alegría sagrada. Que cada uno se rinde a sus propios deseos para la gloria de Jesús, y la sensación, 'Si mu yacen en el polvo podrían elevar mi Señor por tanto como una pulgada, deja que aún quedan entre los tiestos de la tierra. Si vivir en la tierra para siempre haría mi Señor más gloriosa, que debería ser mi cielo para dejar fuera el cielo. ' Nuestro tiempo es fijo y resolver mediante un decreto eterno. No seamos ansioso por esto, pero esperamos con paciencia hasta que las puertas de perlas se abra. Copyright © 2016 de Grace Community Church, Todos los derechos reservados.

CARE GIVING AND DISCOURAGEMENT

Compassionate Care giving:
Practical Help and Spiritual Encouragement
by Lois Knutson
Copyright © 2007 - Book Excerpt
Chapter One
Care giving Is a Spiritual Calling

I did not realize it at the time, but when I first began caring for Mom after moving back to Minnesota, my approach to care giving was similar to that of a fire fighter. A medical, psychological, socioeconomic, or family crisis developed and I tried to "put it out" in the most effective way possible. As the number of crises increased, at times I became discouraged and knew that I needed something deeper to keep me going—in addition to my love for Mom.

Discouragement is a daily temptation when caring for a spouse, parent, or friend who needs extra help. Whether you are a first-time caregiver or experienced caregiver, live with (or near) your care recipient or provide long-distance care, are in the work force or have quit your job to be a caregiver, sometimes your experience is so stressful in body, mind, and spirit that you feel as if you can't do it any longer. Please don't give up. I have written this book to help you!

You may ask, "How do I not give in to discouragement?" I've found that my perspective on care giving makes a big difference. View your care giving as a spiritual experience in which you follow Jesus' threefold calling for your life:

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind"; and, "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Luke 10:27, emphasis added).

As we follow this sacred calling—to love God, neighbor, and self—God's peace tenderly boosts our spirit so that we do not give up, even when we are faced with the most stressful care giving challenges.

As you reflect on this spiritual calling throughout the day, you will be pleasantly amazed at what a difference your spiritual focus makes! Your calling will help you to see beyond daily tasks and instead realize that you are following God's will for your life as a caregiver. Here's how it works.

Love God

The first part of your threefold calling is to love God ("Love the Lord your God . . ."), who created you in his image and proclaimed you to be "very good" (Genesis 1:31). God cares about you and assures you that you are precious to him. Take heart, God honors you and loves you (Isaiah 43:4).

God understands all that you experience as a caregiver. He knows that you are making personal sacrifices that people around you do not always understand, acknowledge, or appreciate. He recognizes that being a caregiver is difficult. He is pleased that you have accepted your care giving role, and he promises to take care of you. You are God's care recipient just as your loved one is. God loves you both.

As you remember God's love for you, love God in return—with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind—and confidently cling to him every day. Remember, it is part of your spiritual calling to love God.

Love Your Care Recipient

The second part of your calling is to love your care recipient ("Love your neighbor as yourself"). Your care recipient is also your neighbor, because "a neighbor is someone who is near you and a person with whom you have something to do." Your loved one is near and dear to you, if not geographically, in heart and spirit.

Your care recipient is important to God, just as you are. She was created in God's image, just as you were. Both of you belong to God. God loves your care recipient with her imperfections, just as God loves you with yours. Your loved one's value does not diminish in God's eyes because, for example, her mobility is not as agile as in past years or her mind is not as alert—just as your value to God does not diminish because of your limitations in life. Love your care recipient with the same love that God has for both of you.

Loving your care recipient means:

* Offering her the same esteem and care with which you would want to be treated if the role were reversed and you were the care recipient. Remember the Golden Rule: "In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you" (Matthew 7:12);
* Reaching out to her with sacrificial compassion as Jesus teaches in his parable of the good Samaritan (Luke 10:29–37). You are like the good Samaritan in doing for your care recipient as Bible scholars state the good Samaritan did for his neighbor. "The Samaritan does . . . what the moment demands, taking care for the immediate future, no more and no less. . . . The Samaritan is the one who does what has to be done, and what he can do. This is what gives to the story its inescapable urgency." As you model the good Samaritan's care, allow the love and compassion in your heart to touch your care recipient's heart.
* Placing a spiritual focus upon daily caregiving tasks. For example, when your care recipient can no longer bathe himself and you begin to assist him, approach the task with the perspective that his body is God's temple (1 Corinthians 3:16). And when your care recipient becomes forgetful and it becomes necessary to remind him of what to do and when to do it, remember that his value is based upon his God-given worth rather than upon his memory (Galatians 3:26).
* Expressing kindness. For example, when speaking with your care recipient, constantly assure her of your love. Speak kindly to her. Frequently say, "I love you." Use positive words. Affirm her, build her up, and praise her. Remind her of her strengths, talents, and skills. Compliment her. Do not always correct her or put her down; this only creates tension, irritability, and depression. Bring out her best qualities. Treat her as a special person, not as a case, patient, project, or burden.
* Empowering him. Include him in decision making. Consult with him rather than arbitrarily making decisions for him. Ask for his help in areas of his capabilities. Everyone needs to be needed. Encourage him to share his strengths, talents, and skills with you. For example, invite him to help with kitchen and household chores and repairs, computer work, and informal child care for grandchildren as he is able. Ask him to share words of wisdom and family stories with you and others in the family. Allow him to do every personal care task of which he is capable, even if it takes him longer to accomplish than it would take you. Help him to maintain as much of his independence as possible; it is vital for his self-esteem.
* Combining past positive memories with your loved one's present situation. She was beautiful. She still is, even if she is less vital than in past years. She was your hero. She still positively influences you. She was the love of your life. You still love her dearly. She was your role model—and in your eyes she knew everything, could do everything, and helped you with everything. Now invite her to advise you about what is helpful and enjoyable for her as a care recipient. Just as your loved one's limitations do not diminish God's love for her, neither should they diminish your love for her.
* Sharing physical tenderness, if appropriate. Before you physically touch your loved one, ask for permission, especially if she previously was not one to be physically demonstrative. Offer her a tender hug; not too strong, because you don't want to cause physical pain if she is fragile. If she desires, offer her a gentle hand or foot massage (see chapter 5). Always make time for tenderness and affection.

Keep in mind that loving your care recipient requires more effort when you have negative memories from past years. When possible, remind yourself that the past is behind you. Accept God's forgiveness for both of you—and view your care recipient as one of God's loved and valued children.

Remember, it is part of your spiritual calling to love your care recipient.

Love Yourself

The third part of your threefold calling is to love yourself ("Love your neighbor as yourself"). Loving yourself is a response to God's divine love for you.

Unfortunately, it is tempting for caregivers to be critical of themselves. This happens in many situations, including when we make inappropriate comments to our care recipient, such as, "There is no reason you can't do this" or "Why do you do that?" or "I told you that yesterday. Can't you remember?" After we make such regrettable comments, we usually feel bad, because we know we were insensitive, and we berate ourselves silently, saying, "How could I have said such a thing! I should be able to control myself better than that. She can't help it. I wish I could take back what I said." When we follow our threefold spiritual calling, comments such as these will be less frequent. We'll also be easier on ourselves when we remember that God wants us to love ourselves.

We will never be perfect caregivers. Perfection is impossible. The only person who is perfect is Jesus. But God forgives your shortcomings. Don't be harder on yourself than God is. God loves you. Love yourself.

Do not compare yourself to other caregivers. Doing so leads to feelings of inferiority. You are who you are. God has blessed you with talents and abilities to provide compassionate and competent care to your loved one. Speak well of yourself when you talk to yourself. Be as kind and loving to yourself as you would be to your best friend if that person were in your caregiving situation.

You are important. You are so valuable that God sent his Son, Jesus, into the world for you. Jesus says to you:

* "As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love" ( John 15:9). Be confident of Jesus' love, and be encouraged to love yourself.
* "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy" (Matthew 5:7). Be assured of Jesus' compassion for you, and thereby love yourself.
* "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). Be at peace and cast your anxiety on Jesus, who loves you. You can love yourself.

Remember, it is part of your spiritual calling to love yourself.
Don't Lose Heart

God has entrusted you with a holy calling: to love God, to love your care recipient, and to love yourself. Of course there will be days when you feel stressed out and consumed with care giving challenges. Yet as you place a spiritual focus upon your care giving role, God will fill you with inspiration and peace so that you do not lose heart.

This book provides many inspirational suggestions for how to have a spiritual focus in your care giving as well as offers a multitude of practical tips for daily life situations. As you use these suggestions and tips, remember that you are not alone. God in Christ loves, values, comforts, and uplifts you. God bears witness to his love for you as his heart continually touches your heart with compassion and peace. Therefore take heart. Be at peace. God is with you.

Scripture

"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. . . . You are precious and honored in my sight . . . because I love you" (Isaiah 43:1–4).

Prayer for a Spiritual Calling in Care giving

O God, help me view care giving as part of my spiritual calling in life. Keep me mindful of the sacred nature of what I do. Help me to remember that as I love and honor my care recipient, I love and honor you. Fill my heart with your loving Spirit so that I do not lose heart. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. Amen.

Excerpted from:
Compassionate Care giving: Practical Help and Spiritual Encouragement by Lois Knutson
Copyright © 2007; ISBN 9780764203718
Published by Bethany House Publishers
Used by permission. Unauthorized duplication prohibited.
compassionate-christian-caregiving 

AN INCREDIBLE STORY OF MERCY

Final devotional thoughts from the last chapter in the book of Ruth with Ryan:
We focused on God’s MERCY as part of a bigger plan.
We were encouraged to view our decisions and understand that our circumstances in life are where God has us now, even though it appears we are headed for crises or chaos God is in control of our choices and stressors of even the smallest decisions.

Just as God has chosen this story in Ruth  using it to demonstrate His MERCY and love, how is God demonstrating his love and MERCY in our current circumstances?  We never know how God will use our story to encourage others.  We are being watched.
Are we being faithful and doing our part?  We live out and demonstrate God’s MERCIES in numerous ways as we care for loved ones.
In the context of chaos and family loss, God showered this family in Ruth with his MERCY,
Boaz ’s step-to-step MERCIFUL provision.
The final chapter wraps up this incredible story of MERCY as the one next of kin has no MERCY and backs out of the deal when he realizes it would jeopardize his estate.
There will be times when our families back out of perceived responsibilities when they count the cost as we care for loved ones.

A 180 degree turn from no hope at the beginning to the provision of a son gives us an emerging glimpse as the author connects this story to the bigger picture, the birth of Christ.  The birth of Obed was much cause for celebration and praising God.
God took current circumstances to demonstrate His love, provision, hope, and MERCY as well as giving God the glory in the end.

 FOR PREVIOUS DEVOTIONAL NOTES SEE BELOW:

Feelings-of-despair  RUTH  CLICK HERE
catching-glimmers-just-happens-tos. RUTH  CLICK HERE
The-incredible-drama-continues.  RUTH CLICK HERE

FORTY YEARS AGO

After 40 yrs. this is the first photo next to the marque

Forty years ago this year, we first stepped into our gem of the valley, Grace Community Church. My husband and I began our many spiritual adventures, the beginning of many friendships and joyful times.
It was our first exposure to intense expository teaching.  The rustle of pages of everyone in unison rushing to get to a passage and furiously writing notes to keep up with our then much younger Pastor John.  Those times were exciting for us.  Well most of them anyway.
The three services were held in the gym and were very crowded.  Coming in late often meant your seat may just be up in the choir loft after the choir sang.  On occasion others sat on the floor.  In contrast now we can sit almost anywhere out in the patio and listen from there.
Meanwhile on the other side of campus we eagerly watched the new worship center being built.  The seminary building may have just been a dream then and the Book Store was the Book Shack because it was located in the middle of the parking lot in a Shack.
I love my church.  It is a place of safety and comfort for me.  A place of encouragement.
As hard as it is to keep up with things now, our pastor also seems to have slowed down and it is so wonderful to be able to take notes a little slower.
The music is very uplifting and very worshipful and I'm so thankful that others have the talent to soothe my non musical ears. 
We still live in exciting times as was demonstrated this week in Santa Clarita.  I know I can count on my church family to rally around me in my times of need too because they have in times past.
Yes, I am so grateful for my church and the love that surrounds me.

WHEN GOD DOESN'T FIX IT

  “When God Doesn’t Fix It”

 I just finished reading this very moving book.  What a treasure trove of encouragement!  While I have heard many of the truths through out my life journey, trials keep popping in and out, and some are here to remain with each unexpected hurdle, in a race, I do not want to run in, but there is nothing I can do about it.

No matter what season in life we find ourselves, Laura reminds us that joy does not come from our circumstances but from our God.  And since God is with us during our trials, it is possible to have joy even in our trials. 

This is a time to be thankful for the opportunities we have to serve and without the things we have experienced we would not be serving in those areas.

I highly recommend reading this book if nothing else for the encouragement it brings.  It also gives insights into the WHY's .  There is nothing in scriptures that tells us we are entitled to an answer.

It will challenge you to trust God in new ways.

 

 In Laura's own words why she wrote this book.

If you had told me ten years ago that my husband’s illness would end up being our greatest platform for ministry I would have run screaming in the other direction. Let’s be honest. No one asks for a platform of pain or a stage of suffering. Martin’s brain tumor and resulting disabilities have been a challenge for us, both physically and spiritually. They have stretched us beyond what we thought possible and even caused us to question the very faith we had held tightly for many years.
I have often wondered why God chose me to walk through this trial so publicly, and many days literally on a stage. My faith is small. Most days I wake up feeling too weak for the task laid before me. But it is in those moments that my heart is reminded of the truth God whispered to Paul in the jail cell—a setting he hadn’t asked for either. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, He says to Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Is it possible that God would allow situations into the lives of those who are most weak in order to showcase His perfect redemptive power?
This is why I wrote When God Doesn’t Fix It.
It’s for anyone whose prayer was not answered in the way they expected, or maybe not in the time frame they might have preferred. It is for anyone who has walked a hard road that’s caused them to question their beliefs. For those who have found themselves at the holy crossroads of trying to decide whether to turn from God or trust Him with greater abandon. In many ways it’s a story of faithlessness (pun intended) that God has redeemed by His faithfulness. But most of all, it’s another way of surrendering my life and story to God, to see His power displayed in ways that I could only dream might be possible. To Him be the glory in all things.http://laurastorymusic.com/why-i-wrote-when-god-doesnt-fix-it/

We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love is way too much to give us lesser things
‘Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise
We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
We cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt your goodness, we doubt your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
As long as we have faith to believe
When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know that pain reminds this heart
That this is not our home
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
What if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are your mercies in disguise

New Spring (ASCAP) / Gleaning Publishing (ASCAP) (adm by Music Services)