The Preacher wears the guise of Solomon and rehearses all the king’s pleasures, only to end in frustration. Adding up all the pleasures in the world doesn’t change the world or transform someone, leaving a feeling of insignificance. Mortality gives even the greatest pleasure a bitter taste. However, the wise way is to receive the pleasures we do have in life as gifts, not something we achieve or the key to transformation. There is a growing popular literature about happiness and wonder being found in the small things in life, to those who are attentive. Ecclesiastes agrees but goes farther. In view of life being a breath, simple pleasures take on a new significance. Gifts of grace are a sign that frustration will not have the final word.
Lent season is upon us! Use this time to reflect on what Jesus has done for us.
