Divine Delegation

My daughter asked me a very interesting question yesterday. Pearly Shella will be flying into First Grade. Shella was lucky to have had such a great teacher this year. Shella is a great student and absorbs information like water to a sponge. She is unafraid of asking questions that need to be asked.

My children and I have some of the most interesting conversations. Yesterday evening on the way to the new temple exhibit--Pearly Shella asked me in the most sincere voice, "Daddy why can only boys be bishops?"

Stunned by the question I simply replied, "That's a good question, Sweetie...I don't know; ...because they have the Priesthood?" After my quick response, I quickly turn up the stereo. My children really love to hear the song "Why Do We" by Kiwini Vaitai.

(Press play to hear Why Do We, by Kiwini Vaitai)


As the music plays I slowly ponder my daughter's intuitive question. Why is it that only men can be bishops?

As a faithful LDS member, I am not naive to the various criticisms regarding doctrinal facets of Mormonism. As Mormons we are often criticized for our belief that only men may hold the Priesthood. My daughter's astute observation stimulated a calculated examination. Seriously...Why is it that only men may hold the Priesthood?

Digesting spiritual beliefs happens best for me when I look at doctrinal questions within the context of the Plan of Salvation or Plan of Happiness. Upon a careful examination--I think that the criticism is often taken out of context. The problem is not with the doctrine, but with the interpretations of men.

I have heard my fair share of testosterone laced innuendo that often too gracefully casts a shadow of inferiority amongst a faithful Relief Society. I can empathize with the notion that as men we have grossly overemphasized our roles in the eternities; and should feel compelled to allow the shallow assumptions about female subservience the opportunity to evaporate within the heat of our own enlightenment.

As men we should see that the responsibility of the Priesthood is of no greater magnitude than that of Motherhood. In my opinion, the reason that God has delegated Priesthood responsibilities to men, is because he has delegated a greater responsibility to women.

Women are fully capable of doing what men do. In my opinion, Women have not been asked to bear Priesthood responsibilities within the Church organization; because they have been delegated a responsibility of a higher priority. In my opinion, what my wife does at home--is of a greater significance than what I do between 9 and five.

A good friend once told me...Sometimes we are often so busy looking down on others, that often we neglect to see those who tower above us. May we learn to see women for who they are; if not our equals--most certainly, a greater creation.