17Apr
While the temptation to jump ahead in Ecclesiastes is strong, our discoveries escalate if we, step-by-step, follow Solomon’s recipe for life on planet Earth (“under the sun”). Step one of his recipe is to cover the student with meaningless repetitions of meaninglessness and let stand. Food marinated overnight cooks easier. Perhaps more importantly, flavors are greatly enhanced. That which brings the most significant results is often not initially pleasant.
It is easy and encouraging to look at life through optimistic lenses. Like sunglasses that protect our eyes from harmful radiation, optimism protects from depression and spurs toward success. The Teacher (Solomon) was no stranger to success and failure. By experience, he knew the limitations, the deceptions of “under the sun” nearsightedness. He had tasted the bitterness of myopic “under the sun” perspectives. He knew that sometimes to get to authentic optimism, one must face unpleasant realities.
What can we learn from 1:1-11? Perspective! In this passage, Solomon begins what will eventually be a thorough analysis of life “under the sun.” As we peruse the notes from Solomon’s exploration of life, layer upon layer, he confirms the meaninglessness of life “under the sun.” But what does he mean by meaningless?
Let us carefully observe Solomon’s evaluation of the ingredients in his recipe. Consider Solomon’s examples: generations - come and go, the sun rises, sets, and rises again, streams flow to the sea, but the sea is not full. As Solomon thinks of these endless cycles, he laments, “All things are wearisome.” Nothing changes. Nothing is new, just infinite repetition. And whatever you do accomplish, the next generation will forget.
What comes from this negative marinade of endless cycles? If you have been following this post, on 4-5-20, I offered my working definition of meaningless. It is “unpredictable, unkind, and unfair.” And with that, you are probably ready to scrape Solomon’s recipe. But remember, no delicious meal is tasty in the early stages of preparation. Solomon’s negative marinade grabs us by the chin, turns our face to the reality of life “under the sun,” forcing us to confront the futility, the meaninglessness of making this life alone all that matters.
I don’t’ think like that, do I? Do I find my worth primarily in “under the sun” achievements? The negative marinade dissolves away the “under the sun” perspective freeing for an accurate perspective. To be continued.
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