Resurrection

Resurrection. The knowledge or lack thereof drastically influences one's assessment of life. Ecclesiastes chapter 9 reveals (among other things) that Solomon was not necessarily aware of life after death. Of course this would persuade his philosophy on life reflected in this his writing. However still, Solomon makes some good points - all quite realistic. However, without a working and growing knowledge of resurrection, Solomon comes across (I believe the word is) fatalistic.

Today, the famed "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin died at the unfortunate instinctive defensive maneuver of a stingray's barbed tail. I suppose Steve would have (or even may have) enjoyed Solomon's "Ecclesiastes" perspective on life - live while you can - eat, drink, and be merry - for tomorrow we die... But something seems terribly wrong.

Life is not simply a gift God gives to be squandered any haphazard way so that our survivors will comment post-mortem, "He lived life to its fullest!" Life IS indeed a gift, but there is much, much more purpose to it than to live for oneself! How about Mother Teresa, could it be said she lived life to its fullest? I think not. She poured her life out as an offering for others denying herself some of the smallest pleasures that most absolutely take for granted.

What is the difference? Resurrection. A firm understanding and confidence in life hereafter will greatly affect life here and now! "Who will inform others?"; "Who will raise my children to fear God?"; "Who will teach them?"; "Who will share the Good News?" All of these (and more) are the concern of one who believes in resurrection. It goes much further beyond simply "going for the gusto in this life."

There are indeed many practical things in life we should observe (like Solomon advises in Ecclesiastes). For most of us, life would genuinely be better if we could be a bit more practical. However, chapter 9 of Ecclesiastes in particular reveals a flaw in Solomon's philosophy: he is ignorant of life after death.

Help us to live life to its fullest but, God, remind us daily of the resurrection. Let our lives then reflect a firm belief in resurrection and all that it implies.