Ecclesiastes is known as wisdom literature in the Bible. It speaks to the meaning of life, death, and injustice on earth while leaving us with a refreshing view to eat, drink, and be merry. However, throughout the writing, we are reminded that seeking fulfilment without God is “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.” (Ecclesiastes 1:2)
So how are we to enjoy life in a fallen world? Do we focus on the great-tasting food and drink in front of us, or is there more to the blessings God gives us daily? Ecclesiastes guides us to release our perceived sense of control and enjoy the lot God has given us, no matter what is thrown our way. To do this, we cannot just claim to ‘enjoy’ things, but we must seek the very thing that provides joy in the first place. We can enjoy a delicious steak and lobster dinner at the fanciest restaurant in town, but our thirst for ultimate satisfaction will never be tamed. And our blurred world will never become clear until we submit to the Giver of all good things.
Jesus tells us that He is the way, the truth, and the life; no one can come to the Father except through Him. By surrendering control, identity, and life to Jesus, we receive lifelong satisfying joy. “Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” 1 Peter 1:8-9
As Easter approaches, let’s not forget God, in His infinite wisdom, gave us the ultimate gift of joy in Jesus. He sent His son to live the life we couldn’t live, die a death we deserved, and rose from the grave, defeating sin and Satan once and for all. Through belief in Him, we receive inexpressible joy. All other gifts, such as friendship, sunsets, good food, and humour, are meant to point us back to our joy in Him.