At Sister Space at lovely Sue Specht’s recently, as part of the table decorations, she had different verses written on gum leaves in front of each place setting. I have taken this verse as my inspiration for today’s reflection.
Isaiah 40 verse 31. But those who trust in the Lord for help will find their strength renewed. They will rise on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; that will walk and not grow weak.
As many of you know, my life has been a little challenging in the last 10 years. My wonderful husband Warren developed dementia, and we have been dealing with it as it affected our life together. There were times when the going got tough and Warrens daughter supported us. I was also thankful to my friends Helen and Graeme Teece who were so supportive and indeed life savers when it got hard. They made such a difference to me by being there, stepping in and caring for Warren and enabling me to have a final trip in the motorhome, and the next year to take a break to visit my family in NZ. I am forever grateful and I know that they were sent by the Lord.
I was getting to the end of my tether and thankfully I was offered respite care at St Andrews Tallebudgera while I had a break. But a few days before I was due to leave on an extended overseas holiday, I was contacted by the manager and offered a permanent place for Warren. The Lord truly had a hand in that; it is my personal miracle! I was able to take that break knowing he was safe and well cared for. And indeed, when I returned refreshed and relaxed, he was quite settled and comfortable. Every day I reflect on this and am truly thankful.
Since then, I have been able to live my life not as a carer but as myself, which has been a revelation. You just don’t realise how your life gets consumed in caring for a loved one. This verse has helped me realise that no matter what, my faith has given me the strength to get up each morning and cope with whatever happens.
As Isaiah 40:31 says, but those who trust in the Lord for help will find their strength renewed.
