“In sickness and in health…”
We’ve all heard this line in a wedding vow, maybe even our own. This commitment to stay together is made by a couple expecting a happy life together.
In the Old Testament book of Ruth, we read that Ruth, a Moabite woman, made such a vow to Naomi, her mother-in-law (and not to her husband). In fact, both Naomi and Ruth had already lost their husbands when Ruth made this vow. Ruth’s promise was not a wedding vow, but a vow fueled by love and care for Naomi, even though she knew that to follow Naomi would not bring her to a better life. She made the vow expecting things to become worse, not better; to become poorer, not richer.
Historically, a vow is a sacred, voluntary promise to dedicate oneself or members of one’s family or community to a special obligation that goes beyond usual social or religious requirements. In scripture, Deuteronomy 23:21-23 challenges us to reflect on our commitments to God and to honor our promises as a demonstration of faithfulness.
“When you make a vow to the Lord your God, be prompt in fulfilling whatever you promised him. For the Lord your God demands that you promptly fulfill all your vows, or you will be guilty of sin. However, it is not a sin to refrain from making a vow. But once you have voluntarily made a vow, be careful to fulfill your promise to the Lord your God.”
Perhaps you have made a similar vow to your spouse or to an elderly parent, or even a close relative or friend. While the line “in sickness and in health…” sounds good, it’s not always easy to keep that vow. Sometimes the burden of caregiving feels heavy – heavier than you imagined when you first said yes. Jesus himself reminds us in Matthew 11:28-30:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
This truth doesn’t mean the work of caregiving is simple. It means we are not meant to carry the weight alone. Caregivers need care too. It is not a weakness or shameful to say, “This is hard.” It’s actually a sign of wisdom and humility to admit when the load feels too heavy and to reach out for help. God designed us for community, to bear one another’s burdens and not to suffer in silence.
That’s why one of the primary goals of the Care Ministry is to let you know that you are not alone. Whether you are the one making a vow of care or the one receiving it, we want to come alongside you.
As the Care Coordinator under Pastor William Jin, I am honored and privileged to serve in this capacity and to fulfill the vow that I have made to love and care for others. I’d like to take this opportunity to convey a little bit about a group of laypeople called Bridgeway Caregivers who come alongside hurting people to pray, listen, care, encourage & provide emotional and spiritual support. Caregivers come from all walks of life and share a passion to bring Christ’s love to people, hoping that they will be a balm to a hurting spirit. If you feel this is a ministry that could bless you, please reach out to us at care@bridgeway.cc.
The Lord has shown His merciful hand, time and time again “through sickness and in health” to hundreds seeking Him. Perhaps our prayers were answered in a way that was not what our earthly minds could have anticipated. However, it is those prayers and God’s response that have the power to draw us closer to God. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 states,
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
May I pray this scripture over you?
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4:2-3
Thank you, Lord, for guiding us in sickness and in health. May we consistently seek you. Allow our hearts to be like the vow of biblical Ruth when committing our lives in service to you, and may we find rest in Your promise that Your yoke is easy and Your burden is light.
If you need help or support, please contact Care.
If you are looking for activities to meet others, check out our Events.
If you are looking for people to do life with, connect with our Groups.