The day after we came back from our Disaster Response trip, my mom had a fall in her home.  She was banged up a bit, and made a trip to the hospital. She was not seriously injured, but will be in there a few days to take care of an infection and some medication issues.

However, it is no longer safe for her to live alone, which will be a big adjustment for her as well as my three siblings and me. I have been encouraging her to move into an independent living facility for years, but she was not ready to do so. Now the decision has been taken out of her hands, and we are trying to find an appropriate assisted living facility. We are praying God will enable this process to go smoothly. While mom agrees with this happening, she is not thrilled about giving up her home. Your prayers for a smooth transition will be appreciated.

I was reminded of what Jesus said to Simon Peter after the Resurrection. The disciple had denied knowing Jesus, and was being forgiven and restored. Then Jesus said:

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.”

In the original context,  our Lord was referring to the kind of death Peter would have. But it is descriptive of what many of us will face if we live long enough. Going somewhere we do not want to go, having others care for us and dress us and feed us. It is often a reality for the elderly.

In this world we will have trouble. But the one who overcame death and the grave for us is with us through it all. While someone may take us places we do not want to go, Jesus will be with us in all those places. The faith we have in Him assures us of forgiveness for all sins and the certainty of eternity with Him. That enables us to face all situations and circumstances with a joyful confidence. I pray my family, especially my mom, will take this approach.