So often lately, I’ve found myself surrounded by caretakers, people who spend their time, energy, and hearts looking after others. They care for children, for parents, for spouses, for friends in crisis. They show up, again and again, even when no one notices. And often, it seems, they forget to care for themselves.

Caretakers are a special kind of people. God seems to have wired them with a deep desire to help, to heal, to support. That nurturing spirit is a gift, a reflection of God’s own tender care… but even beautiful gifts, when stretched too thin, can begin to unravel.

Sometimes in our effort to love others, we forget that God never asked us to do it all on our own. He never meant for us to carry everyone else while ignoring our own soul. When we don’t pause to breathe, rest, or even just cry in His presence, we slowly wear ourselves out. That’s not what God intended.

Jesus sees the weary caretaker. He sees the woman up late folding laundry for someone who won’t say “thank you.” He sees the one balancing work, meals, and medicine schedules. He sees the helper whose phone never stops buzzing with needs and He says: “Come to Me”, not “Come after everything is done”, not “Come when you finally get a break”, just “Come.”

Rest isn’t selfish… it’s sacred. Jesus Himself withdrew from the crowds to pray and be refreshed by the Father. If the Son of God needed rest, so do we.

So to every caretaker, hear this: Your work matters. Your heart matters. You matter to God… not just what you do. He doesn’t just love what you give. He loves you.

Take time today to lay your burdens down. Take some deep breaths. Rest in His presence. Let His love care for you so that you can care for others without losing yourself.