"Because, I Told You So!"

Now, my children are all grown and out the door—but I remember many were the times when I heard a ‘why?’ and responded---“Because I told you so—now do it.”

Rather it was to clean up a room, finish their chores, go out to play, do their homework—it didn’t matter—because I am parent—and know what is best for you—“so, do as you are told.”

Last night as I drifted off to sleep, in response to a spoken prayer, about the struggle all day to just do, to pray, to make the effort to ‘care and serve: or “what does it matter what I do?”---Here come those words. “Because I told you so.”

Immediately, I smiled and went to sleep—saying ‘thank You God, for getting in the last Word—that I needed to hear.’

Waking up this morning, after taking care of the ‘alarm clocks’ or my animals—I come to reflect and think more on “Because I told you so.”

In His love for us, we are given many instructions through the Gospels and Epistles, through all the readings of the Old Testament too. We were given stories, and parables, Psalms, and Proverbs—Words from the Prophets and specific Words to the Apostles and ultimately to us. Words that warn and advise encourage and speak of tender merciful love—and ultimately all these Words are “Because I told you so” words or commands. Some are gentle—some or very stern and direct. “I command you to love as I have loved you.” “Stay awake, alert, pray lest you be tested.” “Ask and it shall be given, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened,”

The entire chapter of John contains a great many words spoken by Jesus to us.

All of the messages in the Bible given to the apostles, to the Israelites, to anyone they are addressed to—because this Bible has been left as a guide for us—all the Words spoken from God’s Wisdom and Love---are words spoken directly to us.

Therefore, let us steadfastly run the race, go forth and spread the Good News of Love, love as He loved, and be humble and serve, give not expecting to receive, rejoice always, give thanks and praise and pray without ceasing---“Because I told you so---I know how very important it is for your joy to be complete, for your safety and salvation of your soul that you do. Now do as you are told, for I am the Father who loves you!”