God, bless the ones who watch and wait through lonely vigil, constant care, who must stay strong for those they love for hope to shine through black despair. Hold in your light the lives entwined with those impaired they cannot leave, where damaged bodies, damaged minds, become a cause to rage and grieve. God, bless the arms that lift the weak, adjust a tone for deaf to hear, who calm with love a fretful child, who wash the ill and wipe the tear. The towel and basin Jesus took is for us all to take and use, in giving respite, easing stress and walking in another's shoes. God, bless the ones who watch and wait with cheerful face, though heart may bleed, who every day commit to care, to serve and meet another's need.