Easter Blessings

An Easter Story

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him - should not perish, but have eternal life.”
(John 3:16)

I still remember the moment I heard her name! I was on the phone with the telephone company, arguing that "yes" my mother could have a line put into the room at the nursing home. "But that line belongs to Louise . . . " I was told. From that moment on, I wasn't so sure I was going to like this woman who would be my mom's roommate in the nursing home!

Moving mom to the home was such an emotional time for me. I knew in my head it was the right thing to do - that it would keep her safe - but I also felt guilty and so awful inside of my heart. The day I left mom, I couldn't stop sobbing. I was sure mom would have to be sedated, and soon there wouldn't be a person left to even talk to! But that isn't what happened. Within days, mom was smiling and talking about her room, her window, and her roommate! She loved Louise immediately!

Louise was 96 years old and she couldn't walk or get anywhere by herself. She sat in her chair all day long. But she also talked to my mom. She would tell her to water the plants, and she would somehow make mom feel useful. I have a funny feeling that Louise was right where she needed to be - to help my mother get used to living in that room.

Mom would complain about Louise's talking into the night. She seemed to talk in her sleep - always about what she needed to do. "I don't know what to do" she would say over and over again. And over time, I realized that what she was saying is that she didn't know how to live on this side any more. She couldn't move, or remember how to do things - and so she wondered why she was still "alive". But even as mom would complain - she would go over and hug Louise - telling her how much she loved her!

Louise is now 97 years old, and dieing. She is unconscious and bedridden. Her family surrounds her most of the day. But during the quiet times - it is my mom who sits and holds her hand - stroking Louise's arm and telling her that she is loved. Mom - who has advanced dementia and can't remember how many children she has or who her husband was - is taking care of the woman who helped her to learn to live in their room together. It is mom who is there to help Louise - to finally find out what to do next . . .

I know my mother is going to miss Louise terribly. But I also know that each one was a gift to the other - from God.

This Sunday is Easter. It is a day of realizing the gift that God has given to each of us. It is realizing that He took away the fear of death. And He promised us a life - that is forever. Louise has been talking to Jesus for a long time now. She asked Him why she was still here on earth. Well . . . she had one more job to do - before she left to live with Him - forever . . .

As you celebrate Easter - it is my hope that you will ask God to be in your life - and walk with you every single day. Just like He has with Louise and my mom. And when it is time to go "home" - He will continue walking with you - into eternity as well . . .

God bless you on this very blessed of days. . .

In His Love,
Debbie & Ted Ayers