Involve Your Children in Caregiving During National Family Caregivers Month

November is National Family Caregivers month. President Joe Biden signed a Proclamation on October 29, 2021, declaring November 2021 as such. President Biden wrote in the Proclamation as follows: “I encourage all Americans to reach out to those who provide care for their family members, friends, and neighbors in need, to honor and to thank them.”

What is a caregiver? It is a person who provides so much to the person being cared for, from companionship, love, attention, and friendship to providing healthcare for the person. Even a smile is a way of showing that you care.

I was a caregiver for my late husband for many years – he suffered from Parkinson’s Disease. Our two sons assisted me in caring for their father. It was a loving tribute to their father that they will always remember and cherish. And, of course, their father much appreciated their acts of love.

Is there a grandparent or other relative with whom your children can spend time? Is there a neighbor who needs some assistance, perhaps with some simple chores? Perhaps there is someone whom you know who is a caregiver. Think about honoring and thanking that person too. We should harken to the words of the Apostle Paul in Acts 20:35, “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (NIV)

As Christians, We are Called to Pray for our Leaders

As the day for our major political elections draws near, Christians, more than ever, are encouraged to pray for all those in authority over us.  In 1 Tim. 2:1-2, the Apostle Paul makes it clear that praying for those in leadership enables us to live a quiet and peaceable life.  Moreover, verse 3 provides that it is good and pleasing to God for us to do this.

            As most people, I am so displeased with the constant criticism and personal attacks made against those in governmental leadership positions.  It really saddens me to hear and see this happening! 

            Christians must rise up and do what we are called to do – pray!  There is no doubt that prayer can and does change things.  Let us pray individually and collectively for our country and leaders. 

Mentors Wanted – Will You Apply?

View fullsize

    People frequently complain about the direction that many of our young men and women are going.  Music, clothing, hair, speech – all of these are subjects of complaints.  Instead of complaining though, I believe that we should diligently seek to bring assistance.  That’s where mentors are needed.

    When was the last time that you mentored a child or young adult?  The Apostle Paul is a very good example for us to follow.  He was a mentor to young Timothy, whom Paul referred to as “his true son in the faith”.   Paul knew both Timothy’s mother, Eunice, who converted to the faith, and his grandmother, Lois.  Paul credited much of Timothy’s good upbringing to his mother and grandmother. As a mentor, you should get to know the child’s family as that will help you fully understand the child. 

    Paul spent a lot of time with Timothy as they often traveled and ministered together.  Timothy was in a unique position to walk daily side by side with Paul, listen to Paul, and learn from Paul’s preaching as well as observe his demeanor. Timothy was dedicated to Paul and serving God, and as a result, Paul referred to him as “his fellow worker”.   As a mentor, you should spend time with the child so the child can learn from you. Remember that you are serving as a role model, so be extremely attentive to your every word and movement.  

    Paul frequently expressed his praise and love for Timothy.  Paul referred to him as his faithful son and his beloved child. He was proud to send Timothy to help others as Timothy had served him well and publicly commended Timothy’s service to him - as a child serves a father.  As a mentor, you should encourage and praise a child often.  Look for the good rather than the bad.  

    Don’t complain – help.  Our children and young adults need your assistance in mentoring them.