Caregiving

Sunday’s Reflection

CAREGIVING is a deeply ingrained human response to suffering. We want to ease pain, to restore calm and peace to those in need. But caregiving takes a toll. . . . It is hard to listen to others when the pains and troubles of our own lives are clamoring for attention.

But if we learn to listen to our own needs and wants, that listening can free us to learn to become truly present to the inner deep and fragile beauty of those under our care. Then even the most mundane and repetitive caregiving tasks can become a means for us to grow.

- Henri Nouwen
A Spirituality of Caregiving

From pages 26-27 of A Spirituality of Caregiving by Henri J. M. Nouwen, edited by John S. Mogabgab. Copyright © 2011 by The Henri Nouwen Legacy Trust. All rights reserved. Used by permission. http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/. Learn more about or purchase this book.

Today’s Question

Give thanks for someone who has cared for you. Share your reflections.

Today’s Scripture Reading

Psalm 116:12-19

This Week: pray for people who need to experience the love of God anew. Add your prayer to the Prayer Wall.
Tips for Your Spirit:
Looking for clarity? Learn the Quaker way of the Clearness Committee to help with making tough decisions. Try it out.
Saints, Inc.:
This week we remember James the Less (May 3).
Lectionary Readings:

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