I just got back from my daughter’s Christmas program. It was one of the most beautiful programs I’ve ever had the privilege to watch, and I’m not just saying that because my daughter was a part of it.

It was all the singing. Such beautiful songs. It was hard to choke back the tears.

It was amazing how they sang, with such gusto, nothing holding them back. Hearts on their sleeves. With over 150 kids on stage, it was hard not to be blown away by the sheer force of their enthusiasm, their joy, and the freedom with which they sang.

And then I came home, tucked my kids into bed. My son was sleeping within seconds. I can’t believe how fast he drifted off, little snores notifying me that he wasn’t just sleeping, he was out.

That kind of rest amazes me. Drifting off in one minute flat, with not a care to keep his eyes open, not a worry circling his little brain.

I think children can sleep the way they do and sing the way they do because they’re all in. Their trust is so deep and pure that singing with all their hearts is not just an option, but the only option. And its the same with their sleep. Their child-like faith, so complete, doesn’t hang on to worry or care, doesn’t pause to doubt the truths they believe. Their peace is so perfect that their sleep, like their joy, comes so easily.

Can I get that back? Is it possible for an adult like me to sing like a child and sleep like a baby?

I hope so, because that’s what I’m going for.

Dear Lord, 

I’m sorry for hanging on to the worry you say I can let go of. I’m sorry for doubting you, for placing my trust in other people and things. As I contemplate the miracle of your birth, help me to let go. Help me to be all in. Lord, thank you for coming here, for saving me, so that I can be your child. Help me to praise you with the joy of a child. Help me to sleep in your heavenly peace. In your name, Amen.