Finding Peace in the Darkness
As the sun sets and the stars appear, our minds often wander to the mysteries of the night. For centuries, people have feared sleep, unsure of what the darkness might bring. The ancient Greeks believed that “Sleep and death are brothers,” a notion that still resonates with us today.
A Legacy of Fear
In the past, parents would awaken their children during the night, checking their breathing and shielding them from perceived evil forces. Even the 18th-century bedtime prayer, “Now I lay me down to sleep,” reflects this anxiety, with its plea to God to keep the soul safe from harm. While these words may have brought comfort to some, they also instilled a sense of dread in others.
A Shift in Perspective
Rather than approaching sleep with trepidation, William Law suggests that Christians should view these nighttime hours as an opportunity to surrender to God’s will. Instead of fearing death, we can choose to thank God for the gift of life and trust Him to guide us through the darkness. As Psalm 4:8 reminds us, “In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You, Lord, alone make me dwell in safety and confident trust.”
Trusting in God’s Love
Imagine waking up to the radiant smile of the Savior, rather than the mundane routines of daily life. What joy would fill our hearts if our first glimpse was of the loving Lord who promises to “keep” our souls? We can confidently affirm that God’s love is stronger than any fear, and that He can be trusted to “take” us into His presence whenever He chooses.
A Prayer for Peace
As we drift off to sleep, may we whisper a prayer of surrender, trusting God to guide us through the night. May our hearts be filled with gratitude for the gift of life, and may we look forward to the day when we will behold the Savior’s face. In His time, and by His love, we can find peace in the darkness.
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