A few years ago, as my mother started to suffer from dementia, I lived with her and served as her carer. Even though she was forgetting many things, she retained old memories including the names of her nine children. She still recognised family members and knew me most of  the time. However, there were instances when she would call me by another name or think I was someone else.

  

The first time she called me by my cousin’s name I thought  my  name had just slipped her mind. However, she began to call me by my cousin’s name when asking other family members about me when I was away from home. One time she asked me, ‘How is your mother?’ I was stunned and could not answer. Another time, my mother asked my older sister, ‘Who is this woman who lives with me?’

  

Watching my mother lose her mental capacities was a painful experience that made me feel abandoned and forgotten. But then I realised that at times we all feel that way. When I feel forgotten, I take comfort in today’s quoted scripture verses, knowing that God does not forget my mother or me. Through our relationship with Jesus, God knows each of our names.

Prayer: Dear Lord, when we feel forgotten and abandoned, help us remember your great love for us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen