The caregiver during the Christmas Holiday may experience added stress. Not only are they busy with endless caregiving responsibilities for their loved one, but they may be facing heartbreaking grief.
They watch helplessly as the once strong spouse morphs into a weakened shell. Perhaps the disease process is producing a visible decline. Or one who suffers from Alzheimer’s Disease slowly slips away into an unknown world where simplicity and safety are the basic need. Communication no longer possible.
Loss of what was. A life once shared, filled with conversation, nuances, favorite activities and pleasant memories. And yes, hardships overcome. Previous Christmases filled with festive meaning surrounding the Christ child. Emanuel. God with us.
The disease process taking claim of the once strong form.
But always hope. Hope for recovery and reclaiming function following the stroke. The new inability to function, walk, talk or eat.
Hope for a remission from cancer that consumes. A miracle that only God can prov.
Christmas plans void of festivities. Joy replaced by a season of worry and energy only for the present need. A tube feeding, or transferring the loved one for toileting. Fall prevention at the forefront of activity. Learning new precautions daily.
Christmas celebration beyond thought. No time or inclination this year.
But the gift of Christmas remains.
The Baby Jesus
God with us. The King of Kings born in a manger. Circumstances beyond control for Mary and Joseph. The Light of the World illuminating the manger scene for all.
Christ’s birth and entrance into our dark world brings hope and joy to each heart open to receive His gift of rebirth, hope and salvation.
Yes. Strength for the weary caregiver and the loved one in desperate need of God’s touch.
Jesus, Emanuel. God with us in every circumstance. Amen.
Scripture for Today
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
those who lived in a land of deep darkness— on them light has shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy;
they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.
For the yoke of their burden, and the bar across their shoulders,
the rod of their oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For all the boots of the tramping warriors and all the garments rolled in blood
shall be burned as fuel for the fire.
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His authority shall grow continually,
and there shall be endless peace for the throne of David and his kingdom.
He will establish and uphold it with justice and with righteousness
from this time onward and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this (Isaiah 9:2-7).
God’s Whisper
My Beloved. Come to Me in the Garden of My all-encompassing Presence. I am Emanuel. God with you in each circumstance.
Come to the manger scene. Enter into my wonderous humble entrance into your dark, heavy world. Receive the gifts I bring. Light, hope, direction, peace, power, endurance. What is it you need my Beloved? Ask me. I will supply your every need. Walk with me My Beloved. I am Emanuel. God with you—Always.
Love, The Father
You may be a caregiver, or know someone who is. Get my Coping Skills for Caregivers Series. Four books in all. Bundle them:🎄🎁❤
Before You Depart: God’s Touch before Eternity
© 2021 Nanette M. Holloway-All Rights Reserved
