This winsome picture book by renowned Christian author Glenys Nellist is based on 2 Thessalonians 3:16: “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”
Rhyming verses and charming illustrations of animals and nature meld in this gentle invitation for a child to receive a parent’s loving bedtime benediction, confirming that God’s perfect peace is always present: “Little One, I pray for you, / As you lie down to sleep, / That you will know you’re gently held / in our God’s perfect peace. / May God’s peace fall around you / Through the stillness of this night. / May God’s great peace enfold you / Until early morning’s light.”
Children will learn that God’s perfect peace is as close to them as the pillow they rest their heads on, like the blanket that keeps them snug and warm, and like a warm hug. Children will also discover that God’s peace is like a gently trickling river and like a quiet sunset. And kids are encouraged to remember that, if they wake up in the night and feel afraid, they are never alone because God’s perfect peace surrounds them.
In an author note, Nellist writes, “There is power in speaking blessings over a child.” She encourages parents who share this book with their children to “gently trace the shape of a cross or a heart on their forehead (or palm) as you say a blessing over them.” She includes other blessings—from Isaiah 26:3, Psalm 4:8, Romans 15: 13—that can also be spoken over children.
Recommended as a meaningful and visually delightful gift for a child’s birth or baptism.
(Paraclete Press)
About the Author
Sonya VanderVeen Feddema is a freelance writer and a member of Covenant CRC in St. Catharines, Ontario.