Life can be complicated. Unless we have mastered the art of never worrying, ignoring offenses and overcoming selfish desire—we can find ourselves twisted in our own thoughts. We forget what we have been taught, to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than ourselves. We overlook the benefit of honoring our father and mother, and the promise that if we do, it may just go well with us and we may live long. Fathers, too often, provoke children to anger knowing this will only bear bad fruit. And no one wants bad fruit!
I’ve been reading Ecclesiastes this morning. I wonder if all who enter this 3rd third of life begin to ask the questions presented in Ecclesiastes. I remember, years ago, visiting my former boss from my television career. Bob loved Ecclesiastes. He read it daily. He struggled in his final years with Parkinson’s, and had questions about all he had accomplished in life — wealth, success, love. For all the toil, all the hard work, all the good and even the hard times, it all comes down to the same thing for each of us. What was it all for? Did it matter? Our life can be about leaving a legacy or having eternal value – but do we intentionally strive for either?
I hope to experience many more years ahead. I wish to live these years focusing on what has lasting value, not just temporary significance.
Some think the book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible is hard to read. I think it’s sobering reality, thoughtful and deep—a look at who we’ve been, who we are now and why we live the life we live.
“The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. For God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
That is certainly something to ponder!
What I love about all these thoughts is that we are still here to think them. Those things about our life that truly halt us in our forward motion, keep us from growing or experiencing true joy are all optional. Yes, we have choices. We can life a life that is free from worry, guilt, and emotional paralysis but leaning into the One who has our entire life photograph perfectly framed. We need to trust the that we were created on purpose, for a purpose — under Heaven. Sounds biblical. It is.
Now, close your computer and give thanks for this moment, this life, and what’s to come.