“If you say so.” These words are the skeptic’s yes. As if the speaker is reserving the right to say “I told you so” when things don’t work out. Words meant to convey that I don’t agree here, but you’re the one in power, so I guess we’ll do it your way. And yet, when we hear these words spoken to Jesus, they take on another quality. Because for all the resignation behind the words “If you say so,” there is also a semblance of hope. Hope that perhaps, where we have struggled, God will persevere. Where we have failed, God will succeed.