I have been working my way through the book of Ecclesiastes over the past month and have stumbled upon, or should I say guided to, some passages that are very relevant to what we, as a society, are facing. Last week, we looked at what church is defined, as in the Bible, that is the gathering of the faith-filled and those searching into a place of discussion, reflection and worship. It becomes even more relevant when times become rather difficult and chaotic and there seems to be no place to turn. Where does one turn in these times to find guidance and hope? If one places their hopes in temporary things of this earth, two things will happen; there will be an end or conclusion and there will be a moment of change because the goal posts will move at some point because that is the way it is. We can grab hold of each new trend that seems to address the needs of the moment and work our selves to the bone to achieve the perfect answer but this can be fleeting. There can also be that moment when one realizes that the efforts of the self are fleeting and it is easier to sit and do nothing than be disappointed once again.
“Fools fold their idle hands, leading them to ruin.” And yet, “Better to have one handful with quietness than two handfuls with hard work and chasing the wind.” Eccl 4:5-6 NLT
You may think this passage rather confusing as did I but after a time of quiet reflection, I realized the depth of wisdom. Let me break this down a bit.
In the verse before, the observation was that most people are motivated to success because they envy those around them, their neighbours, relatives, and people of power to name but a few. It says that this is meaningless, they are chasing finite gains and when they are found to be rather unattainable, they fold their hands and just sit. The wise will sit and meditate in the wisdom of the Word, they will seek the guidance of He who is without end, the only One who has the perfect answers and will provide the Way. You see our Father in Heaven is not about making life unbearable and seemingly impossible but rather He sent His Son to show us the best way.
Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matt 11:28-30 NLT
Mortal leaders are only here for a time. There will be good leaders and disappointing leaders. Many will tell you what you want to hear so you will like them, follow them and bow down at their feet, groveling and asking for tiny morsels to fill their bellies. They will do this as long as they hold the power but once that is gone, those who bowed down to them will be lost and working to find a new saviour. They will forever be chasing the wind. For those who seek the love and wisdom of God, the peace and security in the Son, the hope brought through the Holy Spirit, there will be rest for our souls.
Yes, things seem very dark right now in the world but know this, He has it all in control. None is greater than our Lord and He has promised us a place in Glory.
This Sunday, Pastor Todd will be expanding on this passage and other supporting passages from the New Testament. Please plan to join us either in person or online at 10:30 AM this Sunday. The service will be broadcast online on our website (https://www.mainavefellowship.ca/socialplatforms) or you are more than welcome to join us in person at 402 Main Ave. W in Sundre, AB.
Blessings,
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