Ponder Anew

Encountering God in the Laundry Room and Beyond

by PETER W. ROSENBERGER

AS A BOY, C.S. Lewis fervently prayed following his mother’s death, only to abandon “the burden” of praying later. He expressed his disillusion­ment with prayer, likening it to writing letters to an unknown address and questioning if they were ever received. While his return to faith is well documented, Lewis’ child­hood experience resonates with those who doubt whether God listens to their cries.

As a caregiver for almost 40 years, I’ve spent countless hours in hospital rooms, waiting for my wife to emerge from one of her 85-plus surgeries. My prayers often felt unheard or unanswered during those times, like letters sent but never opened. However, through a long and painful process of chiseling away misconceptions about God, I, too, traveled Lewis’ journey toward a more genuine understanding of God, His Word, and His promises.

Along this journey, I realized that spiritual connection and restoration don’t depend on specific circumstances, dedicated moments, or idyllic settings. Sitting quietly with my Bible became no more spiritual than praying while performing daily tasks like washing dishes and folding laundry. I discovered the ordinary moments of caregiving provided opportunities to commune with God. Whether driving to the pharmacy, changing beds, mopping the floors, or cooking, I have learned to drink as I pour, finding solace and renewal even while serving.

A Post-it® note on my office door reminds me: “Ponder anew what the Almighty can do.” This line, borrowed from one of my favorite hymns — “Praise to the Lord, the Almighty” — prompts me to reflect regularly on God’s power and faithfulness.

Some may believe a tranquil room and cup of coffee are prerequisites for a restorative experience with God. Although those moments occasionally occur for me, my primary encounters with God happen during life’s mundane tasks. By embracing the belief that God is present in every aspect of my life, I have encountered His companionship and renewal in unexpected places — even in the laundry room.

“I will ponder all your work, and mediate on your mighty deeds” (Ps. 77:12, ESV).

PETER W. ROSENBERGER hosts the nationally syndicated radio program Hope for the Caregiver. His new book is titled A Minute for Caregivers: When Every Day Feels Like Monday. Visit hopeforthecaregiver.com.

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This article originally appeared in Mature Living magazine (December 2023). For more articles like this, subscribe to Mature Living.