I will be your God throughout your lifetime— until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. Isaiah 46:4 NLT
It is hard to believe that it has now been almost six months since were able to sing the hymns together at the nursing home. The wing where we held our services has been converted to a Covid-19 isolation ward for those coming back from hospitals throughout our area who are in recovery. Amazingly as of two weeks ago not a single one of the original residents has died. The reopening of nursing homes here in Florida is supposedly on the horizon and though some of my friends may no longer remember me I will wager dollars to donuts that they still remember the words; “Then sings my soul; My Savior God to Thee.” It is one of God’s special miracles that as we sing those old familiar choruses; most have little trouble remembering the hymns as we lift up our voices in praise.
As the last notes fade away remember that what really matters is not how smart we are, how much money we have in the bank; but in how much we matter to God. He has given us His promise to carry us not only during our years of beauty and youth but on through white hair and failing memory. His love is His eternal and unchanging commitment. Even if everyone else forgets us, Jesus remembers. He has promised to carry us for a lifetime no matter where we live and for that we can still sing to Him today! I pray this family version of How Great Thou Art with the Gettys will lift your day and renew your hopes for the time when as God’s family we can share it together again!
praise2worshipdotnet 
Hey, pastor Pete, maybe you could do a live video stream with your nursing home friends? Most flat screen televisions no include front facing cameras and have WiFi. Maybe a sing-a-long via Zoom is doable. If nothing else, the residents could watch your YouTube video devotionals with song.
This was just something that occurred to me. Perhaps you’re already doing this. Blessings!
I am doing a video each week to send in to my friends. The HIPPA laws would make it tricky doing a live stream from the homes even when they do open again. Our small group has sent cards in and we’ve participated in mother’s and father day parades. Right now I am just patiently waiting for God to open the door in His time and way. I know Governor DeSantis has received recommendations on how to reopen but nothing is definite and it will be limited.
Uh oh, I didn’t think about HIPPA laws. Hopefully, as you said, you will be able to return in person soon.
Yes if you notice most of the photos I use of our outreaches don’t show faces for that reason. It’s not a rule that is regularly enforced on volunteers but I try to honor it. In person is what matters though and all of us involved in long term care are anxious for things to safely reopen.
Indeed, I’m sure they do remember the words to the songs you sang with them. You equipped them for a time such as this.
Thanks for the insight. I never imagined it that way. I do so miss shaking hands, hugging shoulders and kissing cheeks at the end of our services. That seems like a long way off but one step at a time. Blessings