Did Jesus Keep a Secret?

Mark 9:30-32

They went on from there and passed through Galilee. He did not want anyone to know it; for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, "The Son of Man is to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and three days after being killed, he will rise again." But they did not understand what he was saying and were afraid to ask him.

 Lord,
Why didn't you want anyone to know it?
Why keep your message secret?
Why do you tell those you heal not to tell anyone?
Why the Messianic Secret?

You preached openly in public.
You stood up again the religious leaders.
You healed the sick, the lame, the blind...
You fed 5,000! That's hard to keep secret!

Was it reverse psychology?
The more you said be quiet;
the more we shout aloud!

Was it because you knew you would be arrested?
There was too much work to be done.
If word got out, you would be arrested
and your work would be in jeopardy?

Was it because the kingdom of God idea is so radical
no one would believe it?
Was it because your kingdom threatens our kingdoms?
Was it because it just wasn't time yet?

Scholars have asked all these questions and more.
PhD dissertations have been and will be written about your secret.

Lord,
I am learning in life --
there are times to speak boldly in public
and times to hold my tongue, keep quiet, and listen.
Lord,
help know when the time is right.
Amen.