---JESUS IS ALWAYS SPEAKING ~~

--"When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her,
"Woman, here is your son," and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." From that time on, this disciple
took her into his home." --[John 19:26-27 / NIV] --

--I'm thankful that God speaks to me in various ways, especially when I need direction or confirmation. Sometimes I read a Bible passage and the Holy Spirit helps me see its connection to my current situation. Or when I listen to an online sermon as I do my chores, I sense Jesus speaking to me personally.

Such was the case when the preacher I was listening to one morning talked about 'Taking Care Of Aging Parents'. The preacher mentioned the example of one of Jesus's closest disciples, John. During His last hours on the cross, Jesus entrusted His mother Mary to John. Jesus made sure that His beloved disciple would provide for and protect His beloved mother.

The preacher observed that children may take care of their aging parents, but in return those who take care of their parents are blessed. In the case of John, he was certainly honored and blessed by Jesus asking him to take care of Mary. I could imagine John and Mary exchanging stories about Jesus and encouraging each other to follow His teaching.

As I listened to the sermon, I felt that Jesus was speaking to me that morning--reminding me that while providing care for my father was tiring, in the process I've experienced Jesus's strength. My love for my father has also increased, and I've been able to express my love for him by keeping him company and serving him--and that's a blessing beyond measure. These memories will always stay with me. ~~

~~Guideposts/MLM~
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