The Importance of Obedience
How many times do we want our children to be obedient? How many times do we want our employees, co-workers, other drivers, pretty much anyone to be obedient? It would be safe to say about 99.9999% of the time! The question that should be asked is, “How often should I be obedient?” We may say, of course, always. In reality, the answer would be, “well, it depends.” Essentially, we obey when thought necessary and do not obey when we think we can get away with being disobedient. As an example, we may drive 63 mph in a 55 mph zone…because, “eight your fine and nine your mine!” But, when we have a police car near us, ironically, we tend to reduce our speed to 60 mph or even 55 mph. Why are we like this? Because we are humans and humans like to push the limits of obedience. Obedience to the laws of God should be our primary focus, but it is often difficult to remember this because there is not a speed limit sign telling us what to do.
As was discussed in the previous posts, the fall of mankind began with disobedience. The redemption of mankind came through obedience. The Feast of the Presentation (a.k.a., Candlemas), February 2nd, represents 40 days past Christmas. Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and Joseph, in humble obedience went to the temple to present the offerings required by the law (Leviticus 12:2-8; Luke 2:22-40). This act of obedience to God’s Law is amazing because they did not have to do it. Did they really need to “present” Jesus back to the Father? Of course not, but they obeyed because it was God’s Law.
We have evidence of Jesus being obedient throughout the Gospels. For example, he was obedient to his father and mother (Luke 2:51-52), paying the temple tax (Matthew 17:24-27), paying secular taxes (Mark 12:13-17), even answering his accusers (e.g., before the High Priest [Matthew 26:57-67], before Pilate [Matthew 27:11-14; Luke 23:3]), God’s perfect Will (Luke 22:42-44), and even to death (Luke 23:46). It is reported by Paul that Jesus obeyed humbly to the point of one of the most horrific and embarrassing forms of death (see Philippians 2:7-9).
It is true that none of us are neither the Holy Family nor Jesus. So, what can we do to work toward greater obedience to God? As with any journey, it has to begin with a first step. This first step may look different according to our vocation in life. Nonetheless, there is something we all can do. If men could grow in obedience toward God’s Law, culture will change. The next few paragraphs give ideas of first steps we can attempt. You may be able to think of many more that are relevant to you and your vocation.
Married Men can consider Colossians 3:19, which instructs husbands never to treat their wives harshly. Perhaps, the first step toward obedience is to consider how we talk to our wives. Most husbands are not physically or verbally abusive to their wives; however, harshness can creep in through other ways (e.g., being condescending, snarky, speaking against them to others). As a first step, ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen you to speak to your wife only through love and respect. Remember, our children are more likely to speak to their spouse in the same way we speak to our spouse.
Fathers could consider the next verse in Colossians (v. 21). It talks about provoking our children. We want to consider if we are provoking our children to “lose heart” or promoting them to becoming disciplined (i.e., well-trained) Christians. If you are having lots of negative interactions with your children, a good first step is to purposefully seek one positive interaction with your children per day. Perhaps, you could simply give them a hug and tell them you love them. Even if your children are adults, a phone call (better than text) or voicemail stating your thankfulness for them will begin to increase your obedience to God’s Law.
Single Men, consider what St. Paul wrote to Timothy (1 Timothy 6:20). The instructions were to avoid profane chatter and contradictions. Avoiding profane chatter can be difficult, especially if your family and friends engage in such. Your first step could be to quickly change the subject as your friends begin to engage in profane chatter.
There are a lot of other things we can do. If we expect others to obey 99.9999% of the time, let us begin to strive for the same percentage as it relates to God’s Law. The final fight will require the soldiers to be obedient to the Law. Let’s begin today.
Saying Yes to Action: Start today by doing something that is obedient to God’s Law. Perhaps try one of the suggestions above. Maybe read one verse of the Bible listed here. Alternatively, you could pray with your wife, family, or friends. Maybe you need to go to Confession, or begin attending church every Sunday.
If you are unsure of what you can do, simply pray, “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen. Dear Lord, please send the Holy Spirit to inspire me with an idea of how I can be more obedient to Your Law. Guide my thoughts so that I can see where I am being disobedient, and grant me the Grace and Courage to become more obedient. I want to be more like Jesus and the Holy Family. I trust You will lead me to Truth and obedience. Prepare me for this fight. Amen. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.”