Secrets

 June 1, 2021

“No secrets, no subversions, no surprises” was bishop Yeakel’s operating principle. It’s good for organizational operations, but God doesn’t seem to be bothered by secrets. IN fact, he loves them. The Gospel of Matthew records a few in chapter six; v.4–good deeds done secretly, v.6–prayer in secret, v.18–fasting secretly. In 11:25, Jesus speaks of things hidden from the wise, and chapter 13 is filled with parables designed to hide truth from those unready to hear it (vv.13-15). Matthew repeatedly echoes Deuteronomy 29:29 where we are told that the “secret things belong to the LORD, or Psalm 25:14—“The secret of the LORD is with those who fear him,” or Psalm 91:1—“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High...” Then there is Isaiah 45:3 where God’s treasures are hidden in secret places, or Daniel 222—“He reveals deep and secret things.” Amos 3:7 tells us that “God does nothing unless he reveals his secret to his servants the prophets.”

God has his secrets that he has revealed in Jesus Christ, but only to those who will hide away in secret places with him. I have often been too busy to enter into that secret place, to my own detriment. I suspect God operates this way in order to reveal to us the secrets of our own hearts. Our daily busy-ness often serves as a foil protecting us from the searching gaze of the Holy Spirit. We imagine we are doing great things for God, but haven’t taken the time to discover the little things that make for greatness as we gloss over Scripture, rush our way through our prayers, and hurry past the lessons only learned in patient waiting. Our emptiness is disguised in our busy-ness while we substitute entertainment for study, prayer, and service. 

Lord Jesus, you asked your sleepy disciples why they couldn’t wait with you for one hour. What must you think of us who struggle to spend ten minutes in your Presence? Forgive our busy ways, and slow us down so you can reveal your secrets to us.