In my busy life, the first thing I sacrifice is sleep. My children need me, and I lose sleep. Plain and simple.
I was watching "Michael Knowles and The Exorcist," and the Exorcist said "If you're not sleeping, something is wrong." (To view this interview, click the button labeled, "here.")
My sleep is something I offer freely, for the well-being of my children. Sacrifice. Offer. Those sound like gifts given back to God. Like prayers. Prayers for my children.
How am I sleeping when my children are sleeping? Am I restless? Am I anxious? Am I having nightmares? Are my dreams vivid and beautiful? Do I feel rested and ready for the day? Am I eager for God's next chapter in my life?
The Exorcist said the best way to start the day is to begin with a prayer of thanksgiving to God and allow Him complete control.
Thank you, Lord, for giving me this new day. I give You complete control of my thoughts, words, and deeds. Show me where You need me to be and what You need me to do.
Morning Offering
O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart of Mary,
I offer You my prayers, works, joys, and sufferings of this day
for all the intentions of Your Sacred Heart
in union with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass throughout the world,
for the salvation of souls, the reparation of sins, the reunion of all Christians,
and in particular for the intentions of the Holy Father this month.
Amen.
When it is time to sleep, I have to make it an act of will to let go of my anxiety and remember that God is my strength. He is my Protector. The Name of Jesus Christ is my shield, and it is through Him that I am saved.
In peace I lie down and sleep, for only with Your help, O Lord, can I rest secure. Psalm 4: 9
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