As a mother of three young children, ages 2, 3, and 4, born back-to-back-to-back, I’ve learned that when sickness hits our household, it can be brutal. One child falls ill, and it’s only a matter of time before the rest of us follow suit. The sleepless nights, the constant caregiving, and the worry that comes with it can be overwhelming.
But for me, the anxiety goes beyond the typical concerns of a parent. Our family has been through a traumatic experience when one of our children almost passed away at 14 months old. That experience has left a lasting impact on our family. As a result, even the slightest hint of sickness can trigger a deep-seated anxiety.
When my child gets sick, I find myself on high alert, constantly monitoring their temperature, watching for any signs of distress, and praying fervently that their condition doesn’t escalate. I’ve learned to sleep with one eye open, always ready to respond to their needs at a moment’s notice. It’s a difficult and exhausting part of motherhood, but one that has also taught me to rely heavily on my faith.
But it’s not just our children who are vulnerable to illness. My husband suffers from severe asthma, which makes him more susceptible to respiratory illnesses. He takes a daily inhaler to manage his condition, but it’s always a concern when someone in the household gets sick. If it’s a respiratory virus, I know that my husband will be hit harder than the rest of us, and that adds an extra layer of worry to an already stressful situation.
And then there’s the added stress of living in a world where it seems like there are always new viruses and illnesses circulating. During cold and flu season, it can feel like a never-ending battle to stay healthy. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious, wondering which virus will hit our household next and how we’ll manage to care for everyone.
In those moments when I’m running on empty, and the responsibility of caregiving feels like a heavy burden, I’m reminded that I’m not alone. God is the ultimate caregiver, and He is always available to offer strength and comfort.
As it says in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Jesus Christ who strengthens me.” In those moments when I feel like I’m pouring from an empty cup, I’m reminded that God’s well never runs dry. He is the living water that quenches my thirst and enables me to keep pouring into my family, even when I feel like I have nothing left to give.
Recently, our family went through another round of illness, and I found myself repeating a familiar prayer: “Please, Lord, don’t let me get sick. I have to be able to care for my children.” It’s a prayer that I’ve prayed many times before, and one that reminds me of the importance of relying on God’s strength, rather than my own.
So, to all the parents out there who are facing the challenges of sickness and caregiving, I want to remind you that you are not alone. God is with you, and He is willing and able to offer you the strength and comfort you need to keep going, even when it feels like your cup is empty.
Let’s hold onto that truth, and let’s remember to go to His word every day for the living water that will keep our cups full, no matter what circumstances we may face.
Reflection Questions:
- How do you handle the challenges of sickness and caregiving in your family?
- How do you prioritize self-care and seek support when you’re feeling overwhelmed?
- How do you rely on your faith to sustain you in difficult moments?
Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for being the ultimate caregiver. Thank you for offering us strength and comfort in times of need. Help us to rely on you and to trust in your goodness, even when things feel overwhelming. Fill our cups with your living water and enable us to pour into our families with joy and love. Amen.
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