A Prayer Before Sleep

Lord, the day is finally done. The dishes are drying, the doors are locked, the lights are off one by one. My body is heavy and my eyes are ready, and I come to You before I let go of the day.

Some of it went well and some of it I would take back if I could. I confess the sharp word, the thing I left undone, the moment I forgot You were near. I do not carry these into sleep as guilt, I set them down as honesty.

Thank You for being with me through all of it, the ordinary minutes I never noticed and the hard ones I felt in my chest.

Now I ask You for a quiet night. Watch over this house and the people in it. Guard the ones I love who are far from me tonight. Let my last waking thoughts be gratitude and not fear.

You said You would lie me down and let me sleep in peace, for You alone make me dwell in safety. I rest in that promise now, not in locked doors but in You.

Into Your hands I give this night and the morning I cannot yet see. Wake me with mercy. Goodnight, Father. Amen.