I Prayed for You

I prayed for you.

In fact, I have a specific time each week when I lift you in prayer. Whether or not you and I know each other, caregivers’ needs are much the same.

Need a break.

Need to feel supported.

Need others.

Need time to take care of personal needs.

I’m sure there are more, because most days can change on a dime depending on the needs of the person we’re caring for.

In the throes of my momma’s dementia, isolation felt like it was swallowing me. The 24/7 schedule felt lonely and sometimes heavy. When tempted to question if anyone prayed for me, I remembered my family and friends who had sent text messages seemingly out of the blue to let me know they had indeed called my name to our living and loving Heavenly Father. Immediately, I would exhale and feel seen, grateful for a caring community.

The Lord sees you.

In all of your struggles and victories — because getting your loved one (LO) to take a shower is today’s win — He sees you!

Take comfort in that truth.

In Genesis Chapter 16, I’m reminded of the account of the Egyptian handmaiden (slave) in the Old Testament, where Hagar was in a place not of her choosing and in a situation not of her making. When she had had enough mistreatment, seeking relief from the pressure, she ran away without thinking of the next step.

The Lord found her. After a brief conversation, she catches a clue and gives God a name! Wait, what? Hagar realizes that it is with the Lord God that she has had this heart-to-heart, and knows He has seen her in the middle of her troubles.

My friend, He sees you, too, and desires to be a friend who sticks closer than a sibling (Proverbs 18:24) offering peace and wisdom and provision for your daily needs. Receive this encouragement and whisper a word of thanks to Him for this gift of presence.

Father, You see my friend who is providing care to someone who is in need, but my friend also has needs. I pray for peace over the home today. I pray for answers to the questions that keep coming up. I pray Your presence surrounds them like a warm blanket, leaving no doubt that they are seen by You. In Your son's name, Amen.

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