I read about a woman whose husband is in a coma. He’s not in a hospital. He’s not in a nursing home. He is at home. He has been there for six months and, along with a visiting nurse, the wife takes care of his physical needs. That includes changing soiled clothing.

I admire people who have willing hearts that care for others who can’t care for themselves. Some do it and get paid for their help. Others do it, like the wife above, as a private, personal matter. Some are members of both groups.

In either case, I see in them something I don’t see in myself—unselfish compassion. Thank God for them. I thank Him that there are those who want to be caregivers and there are those who accept the responsibility when faced with the prospect of being one.

Certainly it’s not an easy task, even if it’s a gift from our Father. The ones who I know personally – all Christians – seem to live for this sort of thing. It looks like the ability is natural to them. But over time, even they become physically and mentally exhausted. Yet they continue.

Could I do it? Could I do what that wife above does? If I absolutely had to I could. However, it wouldn’t be because I had a longing to do it. In fact, I wouldn’t want to do it. I’ve never taken care of someone who’s been infirm in my entire life. I would definitely have to call on Jesus, though, to strengthen me. I would have to lose myself in His love for that person.

And for that, I’m ashamed. I wish I had it within me to be willing and patient, especially over an indefinite period of time.

I am encouraged, though, knowing that the Lord will continue to work in me; that I humble myself not only before Him, but before others too.

And I pray for heavenly resources to provide for the spiritual, emotional, physical, and financial needs of His children currently involved in caretaking.