Bedtime Blessings

Last week, all six of my classes had as their memory verse The Blessing of Aaron. Found in Numbers 6:24-26, God commanded the first high priest of Israel to use these words to bless his chosen people:

"The Lord bless you and keep you;

the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you;

the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace."

We spoke of the human need for approval and how parents can have such an effect on the self-worth of their children. We talked of bedtime rituals and how moms and dads can make their kids feel important and ease their fears. I told them about how my folks tucked us in when we were small, prayed with us, and kissed us good-night. With that discussion as background, I gave each student a sheet of paper and had them pen a bedtime blessing to the child they will bring into the world in future years. Tonight, and in the coming nights, I'll let some of them speak for me.

"My lovely one, think about today and think about how God is in your life. Even when you feel lonely and lost, don't forget that God is inside your heart. I hope that God will be your best friend forever. You are not only a treasure to me but also to God. Do not worry or be afraid of what you are going to do. Do you know why? You have a supporter right here for whatever you are going to do. Be thankful for your life. I love you."
Jeewha, grade 12

"My dear child, now that another day is gone, let us lay our heads down to rest. Remember that Jesus loves you and is always ready to listen to you. He is with you wherever you go and is always shining his grace on you. He has blessed mommy and daddy with a beautiful child, who we will love with all of our hearts forever and ever. Now child, close your eyes and dream the sweetest dreams you can dream. We love you and pray the Lord will wake you for the next day. Goodnight my sweet child."

Stephanie, grade 12

"Goodnight my sweetheart. I love you with all my heart. Even though the night is dark, don't be scared; mommy will always be with you and protect you like God is always with us and protects us and forgives us. So rest now, my little treasure. I love you."

Bella, grade 12

"My dear sweet angel; lay your head, rest your eyes, and be thankful God allowed you to see another day. I am so thankful I have you in my life. Do not be afraid to come to me when you cry as I will welcome you with open arms. I thank God for everyday and pray that He allows you to see another. You are His gift to me and I cherish you like no other. I love you, princess. Sweet dreams and goodnight."

Cameron, grade 12

"My son, you are the prince to my throne. I am thankful that God has blessed me with you. I want you to promise me that you will never give up. You are a vessel full of power and the Lord is going to use you as He has used me. I love you and will never stop loving you. I want you to carry the blessing of the name "Beadle" with honor and pride but humbly submitting to others with respect. Always strive, not to be the best, but to do your best. I am proud of you and I love you.

DAD."

Deandre, grade 12

My dear angel, I hope you dream of everything that you ever want to accomplish and believe that dreams do come true everyday. God will always be there to guide you, and will never lose sight of you. You have many people in this world that love and cherish you. So, whenever you have a day when you feel like you just want to breakdown, know that me and your dad will always be right by your side and God is there watching over you. Believe in yourself and believe that dreams do come true everyday. I love you always and forever.

Love, Mommy

Veronica. grade 12

God bless,
Steve
Luke 18:1
www.hawleybooks.com
E-mail me at steve@hawleybooks.com