The Middle of the Night

It’s the middle of the night, but I’m not asleep.

I lie next to my husband who is now sound asleep. 

One sweet little girl, dreams next to my head,

And the other two babes are tucked in their beds. 

The youngest she came with a tiny bit of fear

The night can be scary when your parents aren't near.

And now she sleeps soundly and kicks with her feet,

But I savor the giggles I get to hear in her sleep.

I can hardly contain it, my heart is so full. 

I lie here amazed, completely enthralled.

God gave me so much, these loved ones so near,

I feel honored, and privileged, and blessed to be here.

My cup runneth over, with the love that I feel,

Gratitude is stretching for my God to hear. 

These treasures, these people, which you gave to me,

How beautiful, how perfect, how precious are Thee.

I love these dear ones, with all of my heart,

And the love that I have you first gave its start.

It’s not without you Lord, that I could love at all,

But you loved me first and gave me your all. 

I walk through their rooms, and kiss their sweet heads

My prayers are raised high as I tiptoe close by.

I gently caress their sweet little backs,

And thank Jesus for providing in all that I lack.

I don’t want to leave; I want to keep watching,

Their soft little chest rise up and then falling,

But I know that God will sit by them all night

And morning will rise to awaken their light

I wander back down the cool, dark hall;

Knowing that one day they’ll all be gone. 

A tear falls to my cheek, and I thank God again,

For the gift of today and the moment I’ve spent.

I crawl back into bed, with prayers of renewal,

To slow down and take time to play while their little.

I scoot near my husband and hold him real tight

So thankful and grateful for his warmth each night

I take a deep breath, and quietly pray

Our Father who Art in Heaven this day,

Thank you for lessons in the middle of the night

May we rise to shine and tell of your might.

 ~Katy Roberts, December 30, 2011(revised)