Meet me, O Lord, as I close my eyes,

ready to exchange toil for rest,

noise for quiet,

exhaustion for restoration.

The troubles of my heart have multiplied,

but I lay each one at the feet of the One

who never slumbers.

O God of Refuge, you are greater than my

buzzing thoughts

and caffeinated veins

and unchecked lists

and regrets from a day in which I feel I did nothing great for you.

I do not earn my sleep, but rather receive it like a child

from you, Abba, who calls me Beloved.

The predictability of sleep falters now,

but I rest in the One who is the same yesterday, tonight, and forever.

Remind me, O Christ, that you will finish what I have left undone.

I lay under the starry hosts that you call by name,

and trust that when I awake, I am still with you.

O Great Shepherd, thank you for leading this worn body

beside quiet waters,

for asking me to cease striving.

Tonight, lead me in the way everlasting,

so when I awake, I can love my neighbors

and serve your world

with readiness

and vigor

and rested love.

Amen.