Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over. (Luke 24:29)
But in reality, these words are deeply evocative of our need for Christ. Indeed, it inspired my favorite evening prayer—a prayer that is also sometimes used for funerals:
O Lord, support us all the day long until the shadows lengthen and the evening comes and the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over, and our work is done. Then, in your mercy, grant us a safe lodging, and a holy rest, and peace at the last; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
O Lord, support us all the day long until the shadows lengthen and the evening comes and the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over, and our work is done. Then, in your mercy, grant us a safe lodging, and a holy rest, and peace at the last; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.