At some point in our lives, we will meet someone whose main focus is being a caregiver. Caregivers are often unable to do many of the things the rest of the world is doing. Their responsibilities do not allow them the time or the freedom to go to the places and do the things they might want to do. We sometimes forget about the caregivers' tasks, and they often feel under-appreciated and forgotten. We would do well to not forget them and the good work they are doing; our Lord looks favorably on those who look out for others.

Let us not forget that, as we go about the task of doing spiritual good in this world, we should also be doing things that show others we are not ignorant or apathetic toward their physical and emotional needs. While the disciple's main task is addressing his own spiritual needs and those of the lost, we've also been charged with caring for the needs of all men, whatever those needs may be. Jesus exemplified for all His disciples, looking out for other people's physical (cf. Luke 4:40) and emotional (cf. Luke 7:11-15) needs. Although He came to this earth to die for mankind's spiritual needs, He did not ignore the people's other needs; neither should we!

Let us not forget the Judgment scene about which Jesus told us. In that scene, the King sat on His throne, and everyone stood before Him to be judged. He pronounced blessings on those who had cared for other people's physical and emotional needs and condemned those who ignored those same needs (Matthew 25:31-46). Jesus also said, "And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward." (Matthew 10:42) While these things may seem small, they have a great impact on our eternal destination. We should not overlook the little things; neither should we overlook others who are looking out for little things and who are, in fact, giving their lives for those who cannot care for themselves.

As I write these words, I feel certain many of you may not be aware of some who are giving their lives to serve others. And even if you want to note the caregivers, you are not exactly sure who they are. Let's take a minute to note a group that is worthy of our consideration and thanks.

Parents. Parents are the world's first and longest-existing group of caregivers. Paul used this fact to illustrate his love and care for the Thessalonian brethren. He wrote, "But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children." (1 Thessalonians 2:7) He later added, "Like a father with his children, we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you." (vv. 11, 12) It is mothers who truly cherish their children, and fathers who love their children enough to exhort and encourage them to do what they should. Parents--especially mothers--give many years of their lives to the care of their children; we should not overlook this great work.

A mother who spends time at home and sets a godly example for her children influences her sons to one day look for godly women to marry, as well as to love and respect. A godly mother helps her daughters to recognize a righteous woman's example and life. They see there is no shame--just great responsibility--in being mothers. Good mothers also teach their daughters the value of having husbands who put God first, rather than simply having lots of money in their bank accounts.

Many believing mothers miss hearing hundreds of sermons and four of the five songs sung during each worship assembly. But they are busy caring for the children. They're doing work that will affect future generations; their children see and hear them put God first and others second. Someday, they will "rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her" (Proverbs 31:28). So should we.

Nor should we ignore Fathers. The believing father who takes seriously the charge to "bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4) will make a big difference in the lives of his children. That, too, will affect generations to come. A father who spends time in God's word, makes sure his children see that he does, and that they also spend time in God's word will eventually lead them to know their Creator and Savior. Because of his influence, they may one day decide to also follow the words of salvation. A father's time spent with his children in this important task and in letting them know that he loves them will help keep a son from getting into trouble and a daughter from seeking another man's love before she should.

Let us also take the time to note those parents who are giving their lives to raising their children who have special needs. Not everyone is blessed with healthy, trouble-free children, but that does not mean their task is any less noteworthy. If anything, we should give more praise to those who rear their children in a way that pleases God. Fathers and mothers whose children have lifelong health problems often give, not just 18 or so years, but their entire lives to the care of those children. Sadly, many of these parents have to see their children--children they love just as much as any mother loves her child--die because of their health problems. The only relief they feel when the child dies is for the child, who is then freed from his suffering. They do not, I assure you, think about themselves or their new-found freedom from responsibility.

And because of their care, parents who struggle to raise difficult children should also be noted. The father and mother who do not give up on their child just because he or she is difficult deserve special note. They care too much to simply give in or give up; rather, they keep trying (with love, constant teaching, and godly examples) to reach the child. They hope he or she will one day see the light and understand that all they have done has been out of love and concern. Though some parents with difficult children never see positive results, it is not for lack of trying. They took seriously their responsibilities, though their own children never would, and it hurts them every night to go to bed knowing that their own flesh and blood has turned his or her back on them and all they know to be right and good. They pray hard and often, hoping that something will open their child's eyes to the truth and the right way, and that they have done everything they could possibly do. They, like Job (Job 1:5), daily appeal to God on behalf of their child or children. And they request mercy and longsuffering for those who are walking in the ways of the world.

The psalmist reminds us, "When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:17,18) He hears the cries of those who are burdened with their own cares--and the cares of others--and "comforts the downcast" (2 Corinthians 7:6). In like manner, we who follow in our Lord's steps should be aware of those whose lives are dedicated to caring for others and be willing, if possible, to step up and "Bear one another's [emotional, physical, and spiritual] burdens" (Galatians 6:2).

If you see a father or mother who appears to be struggling with his or her responsibilities and who could use some help, step in, offer assistance, and lift them up. Let them know you appreciate their efforts and that they are worthwhile. The right words can do wonders for those who feel overwhelmed (cf. Proverbs 25:11).