Counting the Cost

 

Counting the cost.

Mom’s care home uses a point system to determine what she pays. Every detail of care she needs is rated by points, every point carrying a monetary value. The assessment form is multiple choice, and not every task offers an option which fits Mom’s needs.

The result of her fall and broken hip is not felt simply in the diminished life she can now lead due to physical pain and weakness. The cost of care has skyrocketed, necessitating that we review options. If there are any.

Jesus spoke about counting the cost with reference to following him. He taught that it’s important to know in advance what a course of action might cost so that you can judge whether or not it’s affordable. Sound advice. But in elderly care, there are too many variables to be able to accurately count the cost in advance. Length of life, cost of living rises, changes of facility management from a family-run business to a corporation eager to maximise returns to shareholders and directors.

So here we are, in a tight situation, as are so many these days. In a sense, it’s a blessed place to be, because I don’t really know what to do so I am doing what I do know: leaning in to Jesus. Spending more time with him. Praising more: speaking Jesus over my family, my Mom, this care home and the underpaid, beleaguered staff left to deal with clients’ families. Remembering scriptures of strength and encouragement, like Psalm 91: She who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust.’

He has gathered me under his wing; he has Mom under his wing. One step at a time. One day at a time. In this situation, I am experiencing the peace beyond understanding which only God gives.

But I am not complacent. I am actively seeking the way forward, but from a position of faith in the God who knows the end from the beginning. Who, when I have made my plans, intervenes to direct my steps.

I am praising the One who died for my sins, for the sins of the whole world.

In this month of Thanksgiving, I have so much gratitude welling up within my heart. I am so grateful to God, who is faithful to his promises, who never leaves nor forsakes any of us.

I am so grateful to my Jesus, who did count the cost, and paid it anyway.

May you, too, know his peace, whatever your circumstances this morning.