Prayer 114

 O Eternal Being, Thou livest in everlasting light; now, as the world's light fails, I seek the brightness of Thy presence. 

Thou knowest no weariness; now, as my limbs grow heavy and my spirit begins to flag, I commit my soul to Thee. 

Thou slumberest never; now, as I lie down to sleep, I cast myself upon Thy care. 

Thou keepest watch eternally; now, when I lie helpless, I rely upon Thy love. 

Before I sleep, O God, I would review this day's doings in the light of Thine eternity. 

I remember with bitterness the duties I have shirked

I remember with sorrow the hard words I have spoken

I remember with shame the unworthy thoughts I have harboured 

Use these memories, O God, to save me and then for ever blot them out 

I remember with gladness the beauties of the world today: 

I remember with sweetness the deeds of kindness I have to-day seen done by others

I remember with thankfulness the work Thou hast to-day enabled me to do and the truth Thou hast enabled me to learn. 

Use these memories, O God, to humble me, and let them live for ever in my soul. 

Before I sleep, I would for a moment rejoice in the loves and friendships, wherewith Thou hast blessed my life. I rejoice in the dear memory of my family, Andi and Anna and of all the others; knowing that, though they have passed into mystery, they have not passed beyond Thy love and care. I rejoice in my continued fellowship with all my friends; whom now, with my own soul, I entrust to Thy keeping through the hours of darkness. And for all who this night have not where to lay their heads or who, though lying down, cannot sleep for pain or for anxiety, I crave Thy pity in the name of our Lord Christ. Amen.