Called To Care
I was just a teenager when I began working in long-term care. As a nursing student, most of my peers dreamed of life-saving hospital jobs or cutting-edge clinical roles. Few imagined their future in nursing homes—unless they had a personal connection, like a parent or sibling working in senior care. But for me, it was different. I’m deeply grateful for the gentle, unmistakable leading of God’s still small voice that called me to serve older adults.
One of the Scriptures that continues to affirm this calling is Isaiah 46:4:
“Even to your old age I am He, and to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save.”
This verse beautifully reflects God’s heart for the aging. It reminds us that He does not forsake us in our later years; He lovingly carries us through every season of life. As believers, we are called to mirror that same compassion and care, upholding the dignity of the elderly in both word and action.
In “Caring for the Elderly”, an article published by Focus on the Family, Bill Goodrich shares the moving story of Gail and Jim.
Gail had recently moved into a nursing home. Lonely, afraid, and disoriented, she longed to return to the life she once knew. Overwhelmed, she prayed timidly and despairingly and with a touch of anger:
“Why, God? What did I do wrong? Are you there?”
Months passed and then came an unexpected knock at the door.
On the other side stood Jim. Visiting a nursing home had never been easy for him. In his mind, such places symbolized loss and hopelessness. But because Jim had offered his life to the Lord—anywhere, any way, at any cost—God led him to that very hallway, to that very room, to that very person.
Their story was part of a broader message: that the Church can and should engage meaningfully with those in long-term care. We at Baptist Homes & Healthcare Ministries encourage congregations to adopt a Baptist Homes campus or a local nursing home in your community—not only to intercede for and visit residents, but to pray for caregivers and build ongoing relationships that foster discipleship and share the hope of Christ. Whether a small congregation or a large body of believers, this is a ministry within reach.
At Baptist Homes, we are committed to creating an environment rooted in love, dignity, and faith. It’s humbling how many of our neighbors—a term we often use for residents—tell me they desired to live at Baptist Homes when the time came. Some were drawn to the promise of compassionate care, others to the joy of living in a Christian setting during their retirement years.
No matter what path brings someone to our doors, our mission is the same: to care deeply for the whole person—body, soul, and spirit. That’s more than a profession. It’s a calling rooted in love and purpose. Are you or your church being called? If so, we’d love to help you take the next step. Reach out to us at info@bhhm.org, and we’ll connect you with one of our campuses or to a nearby nursing home in need of your care and presence.
Together in His service,
Rodney Harrison, President of BHHM
