Here’s a true story from one of our retreat attendees:

I spread my blanket in a sunny spot in the woods, lay down stiffly and said, “Ok Jesus. Instead of praying, I’m going to take a nap now. Will you still be here when I wake up?”

During a Signpost Inn Prayer Retreat, Brandon said that we don’t have to beg God to be present because he already is. I don’t have to use the right words or posture to get God’s attention. Heck, I could pray by napping, trusting that Jesus wants to give me rest! But I’m a do-er; I was afraid of wasting this weekend by using the time wrong. How could I use the time well if I were unconscious? Would Jesus lose interest and leave me?

You know what happened next? She fell asleep, in a sunny spot in the woods, and when she woke up, Jesus was still there.

Napping is a "Sacrament"

Napping is a “sacrament” —  a physical gift from God that reminds me that he’s not a harsh master requiring me to perform or he’ll leave me. I can receive God’s grace passively, even unconsciously!

Prayer is our response to the present love of God. It’s “I love you, too. Thanks for staying by me while I take a nap.” The feeling of falling into sleep reminds me that God “gives to his beloved sleep” (Psalm 127:2). You know that foggy slope into unconsciousness? I picture that moment when my baby’s head droops against my arm as I cuddle him. In his drowsing, he is utterly trusting that I’ll be there. I’m so glad he’s falling asleep! Oh my gosh, he’s so sweet!

God feels the same about me. And you! Maybe the next time you fall asleep (or trust him and take a nap!), connect that drowsy cloud with the welcoming warmth of Jesus’ total acceptance of you. You can even drool. He doesn’t mind.

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