Accepting Help

John 21:18 – I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go. (NIV)

In February, my husband had surgery that we knew would take time and rehabilitation in hospital, rehab center, and at home, with help.

While he was in the hospital and the rehab center, we were asked, "Who does the banking, the housecleaning, the driving, the cooking, and the shopping?" I thought for a moment, and it was all me! With God's help, I have done this all of our married life, and my husband worked at his job, financing our needs. I call it a joint effort, each in our own way.

After responding as I did, I began to wonder why these questions were asked, not only once, but twice. Then it dawned on me that if I have always been responsible for these necessities in the home, then theoretically, I don't need any help!

But in the past few months, I have been trying to do all these things that I have been called upon to do, all by myself. Things that I used to do with ease have now become stressful for me. There were times when I became frustrated and upset.

I really never thought anything about the answer to these questions until now, and I thank God and those around me for trying to teach me to accept help. I don't find it easy, but I am trying.

The one who helped me the most was a quiet lady who showed up at my door with a card for my husband, who was still in hospital, and a dinner for me. I guess this stands out more than any other offer of help, because she didn't give me the chance to say no, and I did so appreciate it.

Once we learn to accept help in our time of need, both from others and through them from God, it opens a way to let God and these people into our lives. Not one of us gets any younger, and we do need to be open to the help of others. Then when we recognize that we are not alone, there is renewal of our strength and the comfort we were longing for.

Prayer: Most gracious heavenly Father, we thank You for the times when we are brought to recognize that we can't do everything alone. We do need Your help and the help of others. We thank You, Lord, for opening our eyes and our hearts to let others come in. Thank you, Jesus, in whose name we pray. Amen.

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