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Caring Spirit
Winter 1999
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NEWS for the Friends of the Lutheran Home Care Agency
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Christian Caregiving
Jesus is the caregiver of caregivers. "As a man, He always knew what people needed and how to relate to them in a way that gave comfort and hope. Many times God uses us as the tool through which those, who are in need of care, can experience His love and concern. Our world is growing with opportunities to care for one another.
Caregiving takes many forms. Many times we don't realize all that we have to offer or don't feel equipped for the job. Following are approaches that can help to make it possible for God to use us for His "caregiving work."
Seek God - Ask Him to prepare you, provide the opportunities, and show you how to be a Christian Caregiver.
Take care of yourself first- being physically, mentally and spiritually healthy is important. We honor God by being the best we can be, so that He might use us.
Have a willing heart - others are blessed by our acts of kindness. God is honored when we do so, cheerfully!
Listen astutely- The greatest gift we give to another is to listen and seek to understand. God has given us two ears and one mouth for a reason!
Give acceptance - your care receiver needs your acceptance. Whether you agree with another's opinions or actions, each needs to be accepted as a child of God-an act of unconditional love.
Advise not - it is a wise person who does not offer advice, but rather encourages each individual to make their own decisions.
Assisting that person to find professional assistance or relevant information is helpful in some situations. Giving advice can interfere with God's plan for this person. Encourage prayer to seek His advice.
Offer specific ways you can help - you know what your time and talents are. Offer specific suggestions about how you could help in this situation. Simply stating "call me if you need help" is not enough. Also, consider the caregiver for this person who may need your help more.
Know your limits - don't extend yourself to the degree that you suffer. Remember that you can't do it all. Many times helping another so they can help themselves is the greater gift.
Keep your promises - Always do what you said you would, when you said you would. Not following through would be a poor representation of Christ.
Keep it to yourself - God knows what we are doing. keep all discussions of what you did, heard, or saw between you and God. Exception to this would be if the person asks you to share information for their sake or if there is a life threatening situation for which you must attain help.
He has fashioned each of us with "talents for serving." That others might catch a glimpse of God through our caring is indeed a great blessing!
Lutheran HOME CARE Agency offers volunteer and employment opportunities for those who desire to be "Christian Caregivers." If you would like more information, please give us a call at 517-652-4663 or e-mail homecare@lhminc.org.
Lutheran HOME
CARE
Agency Christian care for loved ones
SUBSIDIARY 0F LUTHERAN HOMES 0F MICHIGAN, INC.