A Child’s Prayer with a Veteran Christian’s Perspective
Now I Lay me Down to Sleep Prayer
Many families use a familiar bedtime prayer:
Now I lay me down to sleep; I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take.
This prayer, passed down through generations, offers comfort and a sense of security. However, for some parents, the mention of death can be unsettling, especially for young children right before bed.
Understanding the Historical Context:
It’s important to consider the historical context of this prayer. It likely originated in England before the founding of the United States, appearing in a 1737 publication. Back then, death was a more frequent reality. Higher infant mortality rates and limited access to medical care meant families often experienced the loss of children.
Addressing Concerns About Death:
Today, many parents prefer to focus on positive thoughts at bedtime. An alternative version reflects this:
Now I lay me down to sleep; I pray the Lord my soul to keep. Guard me, Jesus, through the night; And wake me in the morning light.
A Christian’s Confidence in the Afterlife:
As a Christian, the author isn’t troubled by the mention of death itself. Their faith provides confidence in an afterlife promised by Jesus.
The Uncertainty of “Taking” vs. “Knowing”:
The author’s concern lies with the phrase “I pray the Lord my soul to take.” It implies a sense of uncertainty about reaching heaven. This contrasts with the certainty of God’s promises in the Bible.
Finding Comfort in Certainty:
The author desires a prayer that reflects their unwavering faith in reaching heaven. They propose this modification:
Now I lay me down to sleep; I pray the Lord my soul to keep. If I should die before I wake, I know the Lord my soul will take.
The change from “take” to “know” emphasizes the author’s confidence in God’s promise of eternal life.
Respecting Individual Preferences:
The author acknowledges that some parents might still prefer to avoid mentioning death at bedtime. They simply offer their personal prayer as a way to find comfort in their own faith.
Concluding Thoughts:
Ultimately, the choice of bedtime prayer is a personal one. This article offers a glimpse into one Christian’s perspective on the importance of incorporating their faith into their nightly routine.