Sweet dreams

My husband and I like to go to a favorite prayer chapel when we are in town.  While there I read scripture or some other Christian book, meditate and pray. At least I try to.

But too often I end up dozing in my seat. Then later on I lament that I was not awake the whole time carrying on a conversation with the Lord.

My husband tells me that that is not bad.  He says we are resting in the Lord.  Literally, that is what we are doing. But when the hour is done, we both feel we have been in the presence of God.

So why do I fall asleep there?  And why do I fall asleep as soon as I start to pray at night?  Am I being slothful, disobedient, and lukewarm?

To answer those questions, I will pose these questions.  When my grandson snuggles on my lap, why does he fall asleep?  And why does he fall asleep when I rock him before bedtime?  Is he being disobedient, and am I offended that he is not wiggling, and chatting with me the whole time I am holding him? No, he is at peace and understands all is well with his world, and I feel most honored that he feels that way with me.  He trusts that he is being cared for and that Grandma and Grandpa or Mommy and Daddy will be there when he wakes up.

He is so much fun to hold and play with when he is in a “live-wire” state, but it is pure joy for us when he is snuggly and peaceful. Those are the times when we can gaze on his sweet sleepy face with wonder that this beautiful child God has created is in our midst. 

I like to think that God feels the same way when I fall asleep in the chapel or drift off to sleep at night while His name is on my heart.  When I am at rest physically, I am at rest spiritually. All is right with my world and I know that God will always be with me when I awake.