When the sun breaks through the clouds after an April shower, another God-given image - the rainbow - appears. It is an awe-inspiring moment when we first see a rainbow. As it appears in the sky in colorful transparent splendor, we know that God is looking at it too and is remembering His promise to us. He has given the rainbow to us as a sign - not that He might forget His promises, but to reassure us that He remembers.

As we go about our daily lives trying to meet the heavy demands of caregiving, it helps to have clear reminders of God's love and attention. The suffering that oppresses our families can drown our cheerfulness. I remember a particularly bad flare-up in my husband's illness when severe leg cramps would disable him and leave his legs sore and painful for days. The seizures were frightening, especially to my children, and it was hard to remain calm even though I knew that the episodes were not life-threatening.

In situations like this, our hearts beg God to remove our loved one's illness even while our heads know that it will not go away. There is a final image of April that enables us to cope with this reality. The Easter lily reminds us that we have a risen Savior who has defeated suffering and death. He has promised us the same victory if we are faithful to Him. It is a promise filled with hope, joy and reward. So, during March and April, let the images of shamrocks, rainbows and lilies reassure you of God's presence and abiding love.

Lora Chandler has been in a care giving role since 1982 when her husband began his life-long struggle with pain due to a bone disease. Lora welcomes your comments at lorac@yucca.net.