Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. Hebrews 9:27
YOLO is a term popularized in 2011 referring to a carefree, do-what-you-want attitude toward living. YOLO, an acronym meaning “You Only Live Once,” is often used across social media by people wanting to bring attention to an exciting event in their lives, or usually as an excuse to justify their irresponsible and frequently reckless behaviour. The term has been used as an excuse to explain behaviour that sometimes disregards the impact one’s actions may have on others.
We are living in a time in human history where many have access to so many things that can make life seem better. There was a time in our recent history when the idea of having a hot shower in our own home was unheard of. Indoor plumbing was only for the rich, and even then, access was limited. Today, many can shower as often as they like at home, in a communal bath, at an exotic resort where the water can be scented and falls like raindrops, all while standing in an outdoor setting surrounded by nature and its beauty. We are fortunate (sarcasm) to have social media “influencers” telling us what to eat, what to buy, where to holiday and maybe how to place self above all else. The message of the world is that maximizing what is available is the goal we must pursue to find purpose.
Solomon’s thoughts, outlined in the Book of Ecclesiastes, might suggest a mindset of YOLO. He seems to have engaged in all that life had to offer in pursuit of meaning and happiness. Yet his opening words “Utterly meaningless, Everything is meaningless.” (Ecc 1:2b), provide a bold statement on how the pursuit of things that make you feel good are worthless with God being in your life. “Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14.
Christians should not fear the idea of YOLO, because it reminds us that we are mortal with only a set time to engage the world. Followers of Christ should remember the scripture message that reminds us, we only live once, and that life is meaningless without God. The intense 24/7 joy, peace and happiness will come in eternity, but while we walk on this earth, we can live a life that honours God while enjoying His blessings. We were not created for self-gratification but to live in harmony with the world by sharing Jesus’ gospel of hope, peace, love and eternity with Him. We can enjoy the blessings around us but not forget that only a part of this world can pursue the influencer’s dream. Many are trying to survive day-to-day, not even knowing the comfort of clean running water, let alone a hot shower. The woes of the world overtake many, such that all hope is lost, and they don’t even want the one life they are given.
The methodist founder, John Wesley, is quoted as offering this advice that can exemplify YOLO for Christians: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.”