8 days to close out our study on Ecclesiastes. Hang on! Its going to be fast. Today Ecclesiastes 5. Chapter 4 closes with a thought on the meaninglessness of advancement. I see this a moment of caution for youth (perhaps all ages) to consider whose fame they are seeking after. We tend to place musicians, actors, politicians on the pedestal, and then when they fail we are crushed and disillusioned. Now relate that to the promises of God. How has God filled your life? How have you attended to your relationship with him in order to receive his promises and live sustained joy? From this meditation we move to Solomons thoughts on vows. Jesus spoke of vows during his Sermon on the Mount (see Matt 5). From these thoughts of chasing the wind, oppression, seeking advancement and riches (which are all meaningless) what are some concrete ways we can vow to live for God and see that justice emerges in todays society? For me, Concrete ways: Simplistic way: Perhaps I can hold off on a cup or ten of coffee at Panera and keep the money I would spend on myself to have the flexibility to give to someone on the street. More difficult concrete ways: How about physically making a line item in my monthly budget that builds up an account for the real and deep needs of MY community. To send money to those young families struggling after homes have been destroyed by fire? To send money to those struggling financially due to all of their own money going to pay for expensive medicine and medical treatments. They are out there. 5:19 Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God. 20 They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart. Reflect!
Posted on: Mon, 24 Mar 2014 14:51:02 +0000
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