A Prayer for Sleepless Times
Like many of you, I've read about the life and death of Pope Francis and watched thousands come to Rome to say, "Goodbye and thank you." People came from all over the world. Young and old, religious and non-religious and probably anti-religious folks, as well. There were dignitaries and world leaders. But also a sea of nobodies, along with the rich and poor, old and young. Afterall, Francis was "The People's Pope."
In turbulent times, like these, there's a deep need to know someone good, all-knowing is keeping watch. And prayer, like church, matters. Often, these past few weeks, I've found myself weeping. It comes out of nowhere sometimes. Other times it's tied to the news, a song or a memory of some one or something that is gone. Some reminder that life has changed or is changing fast. So it's been good to be reading Prayer in the Night by Tish Harrison Warren. It's a reminder that God is here and near. And so very Good. We are not alone to sweat it out, fearfully and hopelessly.
Perhaps, you've been feeling both hopeless and fearful. For you and for myself, I leave you with this prayer from The Book of Commmon Prayer, which is explored and fleshed out in Warren's book:
Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; and all for your love's sake. Amen"
You and I do not work, watch or weep alone this night. Or during the days of our lives. God never slumbers nor sleeps. So we can.
Trust God, then rest easy, dear hearts.
8 Comments
As a postscript to this prayer, "...and Lord, even though we really don't want to have this prayer answered, discomfit those of us who are too comfortable."
Yes, dear David!! And give us courage, Lord, to be The Church, as you intended, a place for the helpless, hopeless, hopeful, fearful, lost in the worst way and starved for Living Bread, Water, forgiveness, Grace, and mercy.
Jan, tears come easily these days for me as well. I am actually in the process of reading Prayer in the Night for the second time through. The prayer you shared is one of my favorites. I am just concluding speaking at a weekend retreat in New Hampshire. Deeply thankful to be here to serve a small group of women leaders but also so very tired. I’ve been traveling and haven’t had an opportunity to watch the services in Rome, but I’m grateful for this pope’s concern for the poor.
Oh Jan - so beautiful. Thank you. I put the prayer in my phone as a prayer reminder. <3
It is a beautiful prayer. What a good idea to put it in your phone. Such a prayer links us with generations of Christians and most of all with the God who cares enough to watch with us. And sometimes weeps with us, as well, dear Wendy.
Thank you for this good word which comes at a time where nights can be a trial due to anxious thought and yet God as you wrote He is with us and sustaining us through that watch
Keep sharing the things God is laying in your heart to pass to us
It’s so encouraging!
Thank you for this good word which comes at a time where nights can be a trial due to anxious thought and yet God as you wrote He is with us and sustaining us through that watch
Keep sharing the things God is laying in your heart to pass to us
It’s so encouraging!
You are doubly welcome, dear Tina! Thank you for encouraging me by taking the time to read and respond. Keep trusting God to keep watch with you. We all need a Savior and Friend who knows all and loves us still.