Dear Rose Park,
Lately, Simon has been asking the question ‘why?’ As in, “why do I have to take a nap?” or “why do I have to take a bath?” or even “why do I have to drink milk?” In the beginning Sam and I tried to offer a highly educational and reasonable answer. Very quickly we realized this was useless because our thoughtful response was simply met with another “why?” Sam and I have now begun to respond with a simple, “because I said so.” This isn’t said with any sort of meanness or even an aggressive tone. At this point “because I said so” is the easiest and simplest explanation.
This statement is also a request for trust. In other words, I’m asking Simon to trust me that I have your best interest in mind. For example, I’m asking you to take a nap because you are happier when you are well-rested. I’m asking you to take a bath because practicing good hygiene is a good habit. I’m asking you to drink milk because it has health benefits. “Because I said so” isn’t a statement to wield one’s power, it’s a request for trust. And given all that’s going on in this world, if there’s ever a time that we need to trust God, that time is now. It reminds me of the hymn:
'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His Word
Just to rest upon His promise,
Just to know, "Thus saith the Lord!"
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I've proved Him o'er and o'er
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
Oh, for grace to trust Him more!
I’m trusting the Word of God. I’m trusting and resting on His promise. I’m trusting that God will remain faithful during these difficult times. I’m trusting that God will comfort those victims of senseless crimes. I’m trusting that God will continue to guide us during this unprecedented season. I’m trusting that God will remain in control even in the midst of chaos. I’m trusting that God will forgive us of our foolishness. I’m trusting that God will use the Church as a vessel for reconciliation, forgiveness and hope. I’m trusting God.
I know for some of us trust is extremely difficult. We’ve been hurt in one way or another and now it’s frightening to offer trust again. It’s my hope and prayer that in this season and in all the seasons to come we might find comfort and reassurance in the faithful promises of God.
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Mark