Because I Said So

Then a cloud appeared and covered them, and a voice came from the cloud: “This is my beloved Son, listen to him!” Mark 9:7

“Because I said so!”  Those were some of my mother’s words that I said I’d never repeat when I became a mother.  That oath lasted until my oldest son was about 2 and a half and it was the only thing I could think of to end a debate with my toddler that had exhausted all of my patience and logic!  The funny thing is…it worked.  I don’t know if it was the surprise of a new line, or the simplicity of the words but it stopped all the nonsense.  I thought about that experience not long ago when I was reading the Gospel account of the Transfiguration.  Every now and again we could all use a little transfiguration of our own.  Sometimes we get so used to the same routine we need to be shaken up a bit to clear up our vision and our perspective.  Jesus did this in a mighty way on that day he took Peter, James and John up the mountain with him.  It is one of the most profound and amazing stories in the New Testament but yet it is so simple!

Jesus took Peter James and John up the mountain because each of them would have a very specific leadership role in the new church.  They must have been amazed, inspired and terrified beyond anything I can imagine that day.  Knowing how weak and thick-headed our sinful nature can allow us to be, God knew he would have to hit ‘em with it straight and simple so he gave a direct and powerful command “This is my beloved son. Listen to Him.”  He didn’t add the “because I said so” but sometimes I think I need to hear it.  As I read this Gospel, I’m struck by the magnificence and the simplicity of it all.  Eternal Life isn’t attained by correctly answering a series of trick questions; it’s attained by following the directive given on the mountain, “Listen to him”, not do as you want.  Maybe this week we should pause and ask;   Loving Father, please shine your loving light on the areas of my life that require me to listen to you.  Reveal my stubbornness and desire to do things my way and give me the grace of submission and obedience so that I may listen to you and do what you are asking me to do; simply because you said so and remind me that you always know what’s best for me.  Amen

A Seed To Plant:  What are the areas of my life that are making me feel frustrated, cranky or weak?
Blessings on your day!