Not Alone
Not Alone
Share with the saints in their needs; pursue hospitality. (Rom. 12:13)
Jodi had planned to have the house clean for Linda’s visit, but today it looked like something had exploded. On the couch lay a load of unfolded towels. An endless to-do list hung on the refrigerator. Gone were the days when her husband took care of the yard and she took care of the house. Now that he was gone, it was all up to her.
“Sorry about the mess. Now that I’m working, carting the kids everywhere . . . ”
Linda hugged Jodi. “Don’t worry about it. You have a lot on your plate right now.”
Jodi felt the tears well up. The weight of the responsibility only compounded the pain of her husband leaving. “How am I going to do this?”
Linda squeezed her hand. She reached for a napkin and handed it to Jodi. “You know, it’s OK to ask for some help. Your kids are old enough to do simple things like folding those towels. And I’m willing to do anything I can. How about if I do the run to soccer practice tonight? I’m going anyway.” Relief flooded Jodi as she reached out and hugged her friend. Thank You, God. I’m not as alone as I feel.
Many Christian women experience the loss of a spouse through death or divorce. In addition to the loss of relationship, they are hit with the reality of added responsibility. Suddenly the daily routine of carpools, housework, repairs, and caring for children falls on one set of shoulders instead of two. For those in this situation, learning to ask for help can be beneficial. For the rest of us, how can we become more sensitive and helpful? Ask God what you can do to help. None of us were created to tough life out on our own.