By Susan Klemond

 

 

“The Lord is near to all who call on him,
    to all who call on him in truth.” ~ Psalm 145:18

 

My mother has been forgetting a lot lately. She no longer remembers how to use her TV remote. Her phone has started confounding her, so she doesn’t make or answer many calls anymore.

As my mom’s dementia worsens, I fear she might eventually not remember who I am.

I’ve watched friends deal with that heartbreaking situation. But even if mothers with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and diseases stop recognizing their children, I believe on a deeper level, they won’t forget the ones they’ve brought into the world.

God’s Memory never Fails

In today’s first reading, Isaiah 49, the Lord uses the metaphor of a mother’s memory to assure Israel that he will never forget them. The Israelites were feeling forsaken by God, according to the prophet. The Lord’s response to them has always consoled me:

“Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you.” (Is. 49:15)

I hope these words are comforting if the Lord seems distant. Maybe they resonate more if you have a parent or loved one suffering from memory loss.

We Sometimes Forget God

While sometimes I don’t feel God’s presence, I’ve also forgotten to seek him during my trials. When things are going well, I might also fail to thank him.

God doesn’t forsake us even if it feels like he has or if it seems like our loved ones have abandoned us. In the words of today’s psalm:

“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.” (Ps 145:18)

 

Prayer

Lord, help me remember that you are always near and want to be with me in all the experiences of my life. Thank you that your memory is better than our human memory.

Call to Action

Put notes in your calendar, computer, and in your home to remind yourself during the day of the Lord’s presence and tender care for you.

 

 

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