A conversation with Ecclesiastes

“What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 1:9)

So, you are telling me that what I’m going through, as I grow older, isn’t all that unusual?

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die….” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 2)

Most certainly, but why not focus upon the time we have left?

“All have the same breath; humans have no advantage over animals. Everything is meaningless. All go to the same place; all come from dust, and to dust all return.” (Ecclesiastes 19b, 20)

Well, quite honestly, I find that a very pessimistic and depressing view.

“For who knows what is good for a person in life, during the few and meaningless days they pass through like a shadow? Who can tell them what will happen under the sun after they are gone?” (Ecclesiastes 6:12)

I’d like to think that my life has had some meaning, thank you very much.

“You who are young, be happy while you are young, and let your heart give you joy in the days of your youth. Follow the ways of your heart and whatever your eyes see, but know that for all these things God will bring you into judgment. So then, banish anxiety from your heart and cast off the troubles of your body, for youth and vigor are meaningless.” (Ecclesiastes 11:9, 10)

I don’t intend to get too personal here, but you sound like a very bitter old man. I am sorry that you feel that way.

So, to the reader, where has life led you? As you grow older, I pray that you will treasure memories more often than regret them.

We all make mistakes. This is part of the experience of being a human being. I’ve made my share of them. Do not allow them to make you bitter.

In light of this, Jesus came to offer forgiveness, and it is free for the taking.

Had the writer of Ecclesiastes met Jesus, I believe, he would have told a much different tale with a much different tune.

Walter is pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church and has served as parish pastor for more than 25 years.