Sunday, April 18, 2021:

I Lie Down in Peace; at Once I Fall Asleep

WELCOME to ST JAMES'
ONLINE SUNDAY SCHOOL!

Here are the readings for this Sunday:
Here's what we're wondering about:


I lie down in peace; at once I fall asleep; *
for only you, Lord, make me dwell in safety.

To whom is the writer saying (singing!) these words? Why?
What do you think the writer is saying with these words?

How does it feel to lie down in peace?
How does it feel to dwell in safety?

Do you stay awake sometimes?
What are some ways to feel cozy and ready for sleep?

What is important about the Lord being the only way?
How do you feel about the safety God gives us always?
You might pray that snippet of psalm before bed - or try this:

Father in heaven, hear my prayer.
Keep me in thy loving care.
Be my guide in all I do.
And bless all those
who love me too.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
Beautiful dreamers - here's some insight into the sleep of babies, toddlers, kids, teens!
Click here to explore 40 favorite books for bedtime. What's your fave?
Drowsy music for slipping to sleep: click here.

Share some other peaceful sounds!
A Psalm is a Song

A psalm is a song. Some psalms overflow with thanks and praise for God; some ask for God's protection, or seek justice; some are full of questions!

Often, when we are at church and a psalm is shared, the reader (another word for reader is lector) reads aloud the words up to this symbol * while we listen. Then we all join in reading out loud the rest of the words - a response to what was just said.

Sometimes, the choir chants the psalm. Here are five hours (!) of Anglican chant.

If you would like to write a psalm - your own song to God - you should do it!

Here are some tips:
  • begin with prayer, to gather your thoughts and feelings. Talk to God.
  • now, write your words directly to God, straight from your heart. What are you feeling, what are you thinking? Use those words. They are the right words.
  • some psalmists (psalm writers) use similes and metaphors to try to make their thoughts and feelings better understood. Similies = like/as: I am as peaceful as a beach at sunrise, like a little wave on the shoreline; metaphors = no like or as: you are a shining star; you are my sunshine; you have a heart of gold! If you want to, experiment with your words: paint word pictures.
  • let your words be a path of ideas. Where do your words lead?
  • & remember that we are "Easter people" - Jesus gives us everlasting hope.
Happy Third Sunday of Easter (seven Sundays in all)!

How may I help you, as we take this Easter journey together? Email me any time!

Sending prayers for peace, well-being, security, and joy - with love, Linda
Family Camp registration is open at the Barbara C Harris Center - here's info! Note: no summer camp this year (again). Interested in being a counselor or staff member (18+)? BCH is hiring - click here.