When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home. John 19:26-27 ESV

A few years ago, during the pandemic, the way we had served in the past was challenged because nursing homes had closed their doors to visitors. Everything we knew how to do was denied us and we struggled to find ways to still reach the residents in practical loving ways. Today, that era is a distant memory, but if you are a caregiver, chaplain, family member or friend, you will still face moments of despair, and today’s verse encourages us to keep going whatever difficulties we face. Jesus chose us to serve in a unique way, to love widows and those orphaned by the world, entrusting their care to us for a season. When that call seems overwhelming, we need to remember, that when Jesus asked John to take care of His mother, He didn’t assign her as a problem to be solved or a burden to bear, but as a mother to love. Our calling as long-term care workers is to keep on loving people in every way possible and through every opportunity that God puts in our hands. Notice also that none of the other disciples ever understood or helped John out. While Peter and Paul had big public ministries, John stayed close to home. He was taking care of Mary as his lifelong commitment and a lifelong trust. While some people will understand and encourage us, most have little idea of what we are going through. But what matters is not what others think, what counts is that Jesus knows, and will give us His strength and His provision, because after all- we are taking care of His mom!