He seems in many ways to be the same man I have always known. He is still gentle, sweet, and nice to everyone. But I have friends who tell me their loved ones are acting in ways that they never did before. Different memories, actions, or emotions. They cry when they never did before. Or they are short tempered, or mean. Or they are nicer than they used to be.
So are these glimpses of who they really are? Is the real person now being revealed? And that is what makes me think about Jesus and Alzheimer’s. I suspect there are lots of people who hide their true selves. Sometimes even people who profess to follow Jesus hide who they are. But most Christians really are what they seem. Our character is being molded into the image of Jesus. We are being transformed. We are not who we used to be. This growing, learning person you see is who we really are.
But I also cling to the fact that someday I will be able to know my Dad again. We will talk and he will be in his right mind. And we will have forever to visit together. I believe that because I believe the promise from Jesus that he gives new life here… and then life forever. Life where God wipes away all tears. Life where there is no pain, no sin, and no sorrow. Life where the real person we are will live forever.
I believe in more than what this world offers. I believe that Alzheimer’s — or any sickness — does not mean the end, but that there is something better coming. I can help you know that hope. Write me at steve@hopeforlife.org. Or visit our website at www.hopeforlife.org.
