I was sitting in the hospital room, watching my husband Kurt sleeping soundly. The last few days had been a nightmare for both him and me.

It all started when he came inside our house after doing some raking. He told me that he must have swallowed some dust, because his throat was scratchy and a bit sore. That night, he didn't sleep very well, and started to chew anti-acid pills. He didn't sleep the following night either, so I finally convinced him to go to the hospital. Once there, everything happened in fast-forward. My husband was suffering from a heart attack and was rushed to a cardiac hospital, where an angiogram was done. Once they had found the blockage, a stent was inserted. Because of his vascular dementia and the anaesthetic, my husband was completely confused and delusional. I was at my wits' end and thought that this was the end of the life that I had grown accustomed to. My focus was on the immediate situation, and I found myself getting more and more anxious by the minute.

The following verse came to mind and brought me comfort:

Philippians 4:8 – Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things. (NIV)

As I thought about this wonderful revelation, I thanked God that my husband was alive. By the Spirit's urging, we had arrived at the hospital in the nick of time, which probably saved his life. I didn't see it at the time, but reflecting, I saw God's hand in the situation. And … that's where my focus should have been.

As I write this, my husband is back home, and I am watching him sleep, because rest is part of the healing process.

As caregivers, we tend to forget about ourselves because our primary concern is about our loved one. God understands. He is with us as caregivers and with our loved ones. God demonstrates His love for us by sending a friend to care for us by sitting at our loved one's bedside as we go and refresh ourselves. They may bring us a hamburger because we haven't eaten yet or just drop by and give us a much-needed hug. Doctors and nurses, who are compassionate, knowledgeable, and empathetic, are also part of the healing process. Things may not always turn out the way that we hope for, yet our loving heavenly Father cares about us and knows what the future holds. When we can't talk to God, others will intercede for us and uphold us in prayer.

Matthew 6:34 – Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. (NIV)

Prayer: Lord God, we are anxious and worried. We are thankful for doctors, nurses, health technicians, and friends who help us in the healing process of our loved ones. Thank You, Lord, that when we can't pray, others intercede for us. Grant us peace, and instill in us hope and trust in Your Word. Amen.

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About the author:

Rosemary Hagedorn <rosyhagedorn@gmail.com>
Penetanguishene, Ontario, Canada
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