Even so, Father
In Matthew 11:25-26, Jesus prays the
following: “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden
these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them unto babes. Even so, Father,
for so it seemed good in Your sight.”
A few years ago, my mother-in-law pointed
out how that second sentence highlights Jesus’ submission to whatever the
Father desired. She mentioned that she had once heard someone say that verse 26
is an appropriate response when we encounter challenges that we would rather
bypass. From time to time I remember that thought.
“Even so” is a strong affirmative “yes.”
Luke 10:21 records the same prayer, adding that Jesus rejoiced as He prayed.
That characteristic submission to the Father shines through His other recorded
prayers also, perhaps the most notable example being Gethsemane’s “nevertheless”
prayer, when sorrow underscored His words. So, as imitators of Christ, from joy
to sorrow and everything in between, a willing acceptance of whatever the
Father brings should be a hallmark of us His children. May the worship of
submission find resonance in our souls every day.
Leave
your country and family, and go where I’ll show you. (Gen. 12:1,4)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
I’m
here as Captain to tell you what to do. (Josh. 5:13-14)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
Is
there a leader who’ll be wholly the Lord’s? (2 Chron. 17:16)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
Is
there a prophet who’ll proclaim My words? (Is. 6:8)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
My
grace is sufficient though the answer is no. (2 Cor. 12:9)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
Faith
is still faith when deliverance is slow. (Heb. 11:36-40)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
Consider
My servant, who holds onto integrity. (Job 1:20-22, 2:3)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
Consider
My Son, Who gave blood for your victory. (Mark 14:34-36)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
A
girl accepted His plan without hesitation. (Lk. 1:38)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
A
king turned to Him above all when ruling the nation. (2 Kings 23:25)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
The
apostles prayed, saying, “Lord, You are God…” (Acts 4:23-24)
Even
so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.
Same
response of worth-ship from all who’ve been awed:
Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight.