Consistency in Love

Sometimes we just feel like we’re not doing enough. We want to do something special for our loved ones—something out of the ordinary, something fun, something to change the routine and brighten their lives.

But caretaking includes the undeniable element of routine. Often we struggle with that, feeling that routine is mundane, boring, dampening our vibrancy in life. When we feel that restlessness, let’s ask the Lord to help us to accept the ordinary, to enjoy little things, and to be content with just being, rather than doing. We accomplish as much—or more—by quietly sitting at a bedside than by compulsively pursuing entertainment.

Consistency in our love is an important quality for those we care for, whether they’re young or old or struggling with physical or psychological ailments. Presence is the best present—as Jesus exemplified when He reclined with His disciples (John 13:23). Consistency of love in time, place, and action provides routines and constancy that build stability in our relationships.

Feel like you’re not doing enough? Just being there—smiling, talking, holding a hand—is the greatest gift of love you can offer.