Trusting Dad's Care to the Sovereignty of the LORD

Dear Friends,

My last post regarding my father mentioned that his 83rd birthday was only 9 days away. Today is July 25th and his birthday is now just a few days away.

How quickly one's health can change in a matter of days, especially for the elderly!

Last Saturday and yesterday I noticed that Dad's Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Disease symptoms are more pronounced - his hands tremble more and his memory appears dimmer. He can't remember if he was in the Air Force during the Korean or Vietnam wars.

He has also lost his appetite; just a week ago he would munch through a package of cookies within days - now they sit almost untouched. Then yesterday he stated he had lost the desire to go out to a restaurant with family for his 83rd Birthday celebration.

He doesn't appear well and I'm concerned; when questioned about his health, Dad says he feels fine and isn't in any pain. There is a doctor on staff at the nursing facility and the nurses are watchful, so if there is a health issue, I'm confident they will let family members know.

Right now I'm trusting Dad's care, life and soul to the Sovereignty of our Lord Jesus Christ. I've explained Christ's atonement for our sins and encouraged Dad to trust in Him. Dad seems content and peaceful. There have been a few times he's expressed regrets over the past and I've firmly assured him that God is in control and on more than one occasion, spared his life for a reason. When his thoughts wander, I redirect them back to Christ. And I pray.

Friends, when one is in view of eternity and their loved one is standing on the edge, arguments and past sins seem so small and trivial. I implore you to forgive those who have hurt you - especially a parent. Life is too fragile and brief for you to hold on to grudges and let bitterness take root in your hearts. Be graceful and forgiving as the good Lord has shown much grace to you.

In Lord Jesus Name I pray that those reading this will seek reconciliation with Christ and their loved ones, amen.

Dad - taken in July of 1968

See also:

• Ten lessons for growing older (Out of the Ordinary)