By Rev. Baron C. Mashack, Senior Pastor, 15th Avenue Church of God
Watching this happen to your well abled-bodied parents, as a teenager, can be devastating. However, I knew that one day, as the oldest child, I would be the one to take care of them. That opportunity would come in January of 2000. Now married with children, we moved them into our suburban Atlanta home. It wasn’t easy on my wife, who was graciously giving up her home to help take care of my parent, nor for my children who assisted their grandparents in countless ways.
Caring for our parents was a labor of love, but it was labor nonetheless! There are thousands of Caregivers who sacrifice their time, the energy, and their homes to care for the ones they love, and they need support! According to the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP, in 2015 approximately 43.5 million caregivers provided unpaid care to an adult or child.
Last year, I watched more families in our church struggle with giving care, and how much of a toll it took on them. It was then I decided to form LIFT, a caregiver Support program and ministry. The name LIFT was inspired by Moses’ battle with the Amalekites in Exodus chapter 17. When his hands were lifted the Israelites were winning. However, when he became tired and lowered them they began to lose. Aaron and Hur, the Bible says, helped to keep his hands lifted so they could win the victory!
That is what LIFT seeks to do! We seek to come alongside people who are growing weary in a noble battle to take care of the people they love. We will launch our first LIFT Session on Thursday, March 12th @ 7 p.m. Our guest will be Broward Country Elderly and Veterans Services. LIFT will take place every 2nd Thursday. To learn more go to www.jointheave.com or call (954)764-6841.