More From Monica A. Andermann

Evidence of God’s love is truly all around us. I’ve witnessed this blessing many times in my life and in the lives of those around me. For me personally, there was no greater proof of God’s love, caring, and comfort than at the times when I was navigating caregiving and grief.

During my mother’s illness, I became friendly with an RN who joined my office staff. At that point, he had made a career change from hands-on nursing to administrative duties, just at the time my mother’s health began to decline rapidly. This gentleman’s straight-forward explanations of medical terminology, process, and procedure was invaluable to me as I navigated advocating on Mom’s behalf, bringing both of us a greater degree of understanding and comfort.

Many years later, when my dad suffered a number of health challenges, we were blessed with a wonderful aide and home-visit physician who both eased Dad’s experience and assisted in my challenges of caregiving. Additionally, several family members came forward, uplifting me with encouragement leading up to and after Dad’s ultimate passing. As a result, our bonds continue to be even stronger today.

At my brother’s unexpected passing, I had a bit of a different experience. While family also supported me, my brother’s friends and associates came to the forefront to show me comfort, care, and kindness for which I’ll always be grateful. While those folks eased out of my life shortly after, they were there when I needed them most. They will never be forgotten.

There is a popular saying that claims people are in our lives for a reason, a season or, in the case of family and those with whom we share an exceptional bond, for life. Doubtless it is the hand of God that leads them to us when we need them. Certainly, I have felt God’s presence in this way countless times and I remain grateful for the All-Knowing’s love expressed through the hands and hearts of friends, family and, sometimes, even strangers. God’s love truly is a gift that can come to us in many different ways and through many different people.

“Be devoted to one another in love.” — Romans 12:10 (NIV)