Know the Truth: 7-Day Devotional for NICU ParentsSample

Lie #3: I can’t help my baby in the NICU.

The Truth: Your baby needs you.

Helpless - that’s a real feeling. Seeing my son’s body surrounded by tubes and his face buried in a CPAP device brought an overwhelming sense of feeling helpless. What he needs, I can’t provide. That’s why he’s here, right? But, that’s a big lie. Prosper needed me more than ever. He needed to see my face and feel my touch. My husband and I always noticed how Prosper would perk up when he knew Mommy and Daddy were nearby.

The doctors and nurses are there to do what they do, but they can never take your place as a parent. There’s a connection you have to your baby. For many moms, there’s a special bond because your baby was growing on the inside of you! There are some moms and dads who have adopted a baby who needs NICU care. In John 19:26-27, as Jesus was preparing to die on the cross, He tells one of His closest disciples, James, “My mother is your mother.” He tells His mother, “This is your son.” God loves adoption: the idea of taking someone in as your own. Jesus knew that by leaving the earth, His mother was losing her earthly son. But He knew His disciple James could fill that void. As believers, we are all adopted into God’s chosen family. If you have an adopted son or daughter, your love for your child is a true example of God’s love for us. This is a blessing and an honor!

Reflection:

What are some ways you can show love to your baby during this time? Whether it’s holding your baby’s hand or singing a lullaby, remember that your little one needs your love and your presence.