Evening (not bedtime) prayers
Introducing Vespers
You may be wondering, “Why am I getting this email so late in the day?”
You’ll see…
I was not raised in a tradition with dedicated times of prayer.
Other than meal times.
Which, maybe I’ll touch on that one another day.
…
But, one of the scheduled prayer rituals I have always been fascinated with was the idea of Vespers.
These were the prayers that take place in the evening, but not your final prayers of the day.
And they were always meant to be communal - typically around 6 or 7pm (does the timing make more sense now?)
And part of me wishes there were more opportunities to participate in something like vespers (and the lead pastor at my church actually practices vespers with his whole family before they start their bedtime routines).
Because, wrapping up the “productive” part of your day in prayer, before engaging with the restful rhythms of your day, carries a lot of meaning. You are given the opportunity to reflect on what made you grateful, what you can now see was a blessing, and you can ask for good rest as you switch gears and transition to the final phase of your day.
So, I’d encourage you to try vespers (or just call them evening prayers) after dinner or at the start of your bedtime routines with your kiddos. And just see what happens.
My prayer for today
Our Father, thank you for this day—the good, bad, and ugly. Help me unwind at the end of this day of work you have given me. Spirit, fill me and use me for tomorrow. Amen.
Remember
Vespers don’t have to be fancy. Just a chance to reflect and unwind. So try it out, if only for a moment.