Let Me Sleep

Father, Father, let me sleep.
I can barely keep my eyes open.
The story is boring.
I don’t like it any more.
It won’t get any better.
Please, Father, night is here.
Let me sleep.

Child, Child, we aren’t even half finished with our story!
Open your eyes
or you will never see the kindly teacher
who guides you through Geometry.
Open your ears
or you will never hear the tinkling sound
of your child laughing as you play together.
Breathe deeply
and smell the earth cleansed with your tears.

But Father, I’m so tired.
I have too much pain.
Quiet, Child, I know best for you.

Father, Father, let me sleep.
I can’t bare the struggles I must face.
My husband hates me.
My kids won’t listen.
My daughter is sick.
The weight of the world is crushing me,
and I’m so tired.
Please, Father, night is here.
Let me sleep.

Child, Child, we are just getting to the good part
where you see the work of my mighty arm.
Open your heart so you can feel
your husband’s conversion,
your children’s love,
your daughter’s happiness.
Let me bear your burdens.
Listen with humility,
so you can be truly great.

But Father, I’m so tired.
I have too much pain.
Quiet, Child, I know best for you

Father, Father, I don’t want to sleep.
This can’t be the end of our story!
I haven’t spent enough time with my grandchildren!
I haven’t finished my work in the many church ministries
you have called me to!
I still haven’t gone with my husband
on that cruise.
I haven’t told enough people about You yet.
I have so much left to do!
Please Father, I’m not tired yet.
I want to stay up with you!

Child, Child, you have seen all you can see.
You’ve done all you can do.
Our story is complete.
No, we cannot read it again.
We cannot read another one.

But Father, what about all I want to do for you?
Quiet, Child. I know best for you.

I have watched you grow from babe to saint.
Now close your eyes and whisper my name
As I open the gates of heaven for you.
You’ll feel no more pain,
only my intense burning love
as you look upon my face.