Bedtime Prayers
One day, when I look back on the most enjoyable
experiences of parenting, I am sure that bedtime prayers will be near
the top of my list. It is one of the most refreshing, humbling
experiences of my day.
As of now, only Samuel can say a prayer at night. But, our daughter, Zoe,
always bows her head, listens carefully, and offers a hearty “Amen” when
we finish the prayer.
While the whole scene is a great way to end a hectic day, it is the
words to the prayers that can bring a smile to your face or a tear
streaming down your eye.
Every night before bedtime, we go through the normal hassles of washing
up, changing diapers and putting the kids in their pajamas. One night
(after a horrendous diaper), Samuel included in his prayers, “T’ank you
for diapuh change.”
He is also very careful to mention all of the people he can remember
from his day’s activities. After church services, he usually includes
every single person’s name he can remember whether it be teachers, kids
from Bible class or somebody who gave him a piece of candy or gum! He is
thankful for every one of you.
Of course, this all is in addition to the normal, “T’ank you for Bible,
T’ank you for Jeezus, T’ank you for food, T’ank you for sleep, T’ank you
for gramma and grappa, T’ank you for mommy and daddy.”
There is one night that really touched me. Rarely, is mom missing from
the bedtime prayers. One night, she got home a bit after bedtime. So, as
I had Samuel say the prayer, he offered this brief, special prayer,
“Hebeanly Fodder, T’ank you for Mommy. Amen.”
I am sad to admit that there have been times in my life I have not
prayed as I ought. There have been times I took my blessings and others
for granted. There have been times I failed to offer that brief, special
prayer for someone very important to me. Yet, today, I am thankful to
God for my children so they can refresh me with the child-like spirit I
so often lack.
“The Lord has done great things for us, and we are glad” (Psalm
126:3).
Think about it.
October 2006