Years ago, in my Findlay Bible Study Fellowship small group, I met a lovely young woman name Kim. She asked to meet after group because she felt a connection with me. We only had a chance to have coffee and chat once because I was preparing to move to Ashland. Today Kim called me. After all this time, she remembered my name and the town to which I moved!
Kim's reason for calling was her concern for her 72 year old Mom, Carol, who is an Ashland resident. She wondered if I knew of anyone that could provide a listening ear for Carol, fellowship and perhaps some pastoral counseling. As we brainstormed a few ideas, Kim asked me where I went to church. I heard her audibly gasp when I told her Park Street Brethren Church. Coincidentally??? her Mom attends Park Street as well. Kim was even more astounded when I shared I am heading up Care Ministries at church and had several resources to suggest to her Mom for support and care.
Beyond my church leadership, I have a more personal interest in Kim's request. As a daughter, I know firsthand the need of an elderly Mother who yearns for the blessing of community. When my Mom was in and out of hospitals and nursing homes, her most immediate concern was access to friends and family. Once she became ill, loneliness became her reality. It was quite difficult for Mom to be stripped away of her social life due to her inability to see the people she loved on a regular basis. For me, one of the saddest circumstances regarding her death was the fact that she was surrounded by nurses and doctors she didn't know. She died in the very early hours of the morning and neither my brother and I, nor her sister or friends were at her bedside. I felt she died alone.
Two weeks ago at a church leadership team board meeting I met CEO Jay Brooks of Ashland Brethren Care. This residential facility is much like the one in which my Mom lived for most of her final months of life. Jay shared with me one of the most pressing needs of his residents is for someone to visit and spend time talking with them. Another coincidence?
My Findlay friend Kim had a strong sense that her Mom "just needed someone to talk to." On a happier note, Park Street Church can provide for Carol. Kim was full of praise for our conversation today and I truly understood the relief in her voice. Kim has more hope that her Mom will get what she needs. Could it be that the initial connection Kim felt with me was part of God's plan that is now unfolding? Is this the mystery of God to which we often speak?
It appears God has done his part in his provision (if I may humbly note) and now it's our turn to do ours. Spending time in nursing homes can be most discouraging, hospital visits can be awkward, and ministry to people facing the last season of their lives may be depressing. I know that on a deeply personal level. But if we're going to be like Jesus, we don't dismiss what is uncomfortable.
How about you? Do you know a person in need who "just needs someone to talk to?"
And if you still have the opportunity, call your Mom.
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