You have hedged me behind and before, and laid Your hand
upon me. - Psalm 139:5
The term "sandwich generation" is often used to describe people who are being
squeezed between the demands of their children and the responsibility to help their own
aging parents. It's not a new dilemma but one that has been complicated by families living
far apart, an increasing number of working women, and the pressures faced by single
parents.
For the past 8 years, my wife's mother has needed fulltime care, and our youngest daughter
has grown from age 7 to 15. Two Bible passages have helped us through the ever-changing
landscape of being parents and caregivers. The first is 1 Timothy 5:4, "If any widow
has children or grandchildren, let them first learn to show piety at home and to repay
their parents; for this is good and acceptable before God." There are many different
ways to do this, but the clear command is to care for a parent in need.
The second passage is Psalm 139:5-6. The words of David help us to see that instead of
being hemmed in by circumstances, we are surrounded by God's care: "You have hedged
me behind and before, and laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for
me." If you're feeling "sandwiched" today, know that the Lord is closer to
you than the most pressing circumstances.
-DCM
O wondrous knowledge, deep and high!
Where can a creature hide?
Within Thy circling arms I lie,
Beset on every side.
-Watts
Faith puts God between us and circumstances.