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Our experience has been that the more kids we have, the worse we’ve gotten at bedtime. We used to have such a beautiful routine—structured prayer, songs sung in harmony, smooth, reliable, and on time. That was for our older four kids. But at some point along the way, bedtime started to get chaotic. With busy schedules, snuggly infants, and clingy toddlers, our routine has certainly changed over the years.

In recent weeks, we’ve had more success getting my four-year-old to settle into bed with limited drama. However, she started insisting she couldn’t go to sleep because there were monsters. Of course, my husband assured her there were none, and the conversation evolved. What started as a stalling tactic has turned into a beautiful nightly ritual. Every night, my husband kisses the girls goodnight, turns out the light, closes the door, and takes his claim over our home. He says in a loud, bold voice:

“Attention: This is a monster-free zone. No monsters are welcome here; all monsters must return to their homes immediately.”

If necessary, he repeats the mantra as our little Zelie giggles at the strength her father possesses. Without fail, she goes to sleep, peacefully and without fear.

At first, this was just another funny anecdote of parenthood—one of those things we’ll laugh about when our home is quieter, when our children have bedtime routines of their own. But watching it unfold night after night; I began to see something deeper. I realized this is how the Father loves us, and sometimes, we just need to listen for the claim He has already made.

Scripture reminds us that perfect love and fear cannot coexist:

“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear.”
1 John 4:18

My daughter doesn’t try to take on the monsters by herself. She doesn’t insist on standing by him to make sure he’s doing it correctly. She simply trusts in the authority and protection of her father. Because she is certain of the love he has for her, she rests in the assurance that the problem is already handled.

The saints understood the importance of resting in God’s protection. St. Joseph guarded his family, trusting even in God’s plan of exile to Egypt. St. Thérèse of Lisieux spoke of complete surrender and confidence in God’s providence. Saints like Joan of Arc, Cecilia, and Lucy were not afraid of their enemies because they understood the battle was already won.

Our “monsters” may not be the kind my daughter imagines—they may take the form of anxiety, guilt, or shame. They may look like financial uncertainty, chronic illness, or grief. But the invitation is the same: stop trying to handle it alone and trust the Father who stands outside our doors, claiming us as His own. Psalm 121:8 reminds us:

“The Lord will guard your going out and your coming in.”

We can rest knowing, as my daughter does, that we have a Father who loves and stands guard. Evil is not negotiated with; it is dismissed and sent away.

May we, too, learn to rest in the Father’s love. In the quiet moments, let us hear His voice declaring over us:

“This is a monster-free zone. No monsters are welcome here. All monsters must go home.”