A day will come for all of us when we are separated from the ones we love most. This is heartbreaking. It was never meant to be this way. Death was not a part of the design specs of the garden of Eden, and this is why death affects us so deeply; our minds and hearts were not engineered to handle the effects of death. But God has wisdom for us, and through Solomon, has given counsel for navigating “the vapor” that is life under the sun (Ecclesiastes 1:2–4).
King Solomon tells us to enjoy life while we’re living it. Plain, simple, to the point. We are to look at what God has given us—the blessings we acknowledge and everything we take for granted—and maximize our joy in those gifts from Him. We are to leverage them to care for His Church, and in the process, He makes us more aware of what we’ve been given: “The righteous, the wise, and their works are in God’s hands” (Ecclesiastes 9:1). Solomon tells us to savor our meals, to tell stories and clank our glasses with friends, looking into the eyes of our fellow image-bearers. Why? Because it won’t always be like this. These moments are fleeting, so grab them now.
Wisdom in this life involves more than just fighting sin; wisdom also means fully living the life God has given us. Because of Jesus’s death and rising, we realize it’s not unspiritual to enjoy life—it’s actually biblical—for the glory of God and for our good. Jesus defeating death shows us that God doesn’t ignore the beauties of physical human life; He redeems them. Therefore, we ought to enjoy them and give thanks for them in the moment, which is an act of those who are fully alive, “for the living know that they will die” (Ecclesiastes 9:5).
This does not mean that we can shirk our responsibilities in pursuit of our own personal pleasure and comfort—that’s worldliness. Disciples of Christ discover joy in the ordinariness of life. Today, resolve to be present and relish in what you have been given from God, enjoying and acknowledging “every good and perfect gift” from “the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows,” despite our circumstances (James 1:17).
Whatever you do in this life, do it all the way. Whatever it is that you’ve been called to do for work, family, church—do it with all your strength (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Life’s too fleeting for half-measures and good intentions. Both are ultimately empty acts, and Jesus came so that each of us “may have life and have it in abundance” (John 10:10). Love and live fully, laugh until you cry, embrace those around you. Enjoy life today, remembering that it is a vapor, but that in our God’s presence are abundant joys and eternal pleasures (Psalm 16:11).
I am reminded of Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Doesn’t matter what you do, do it for the Lord! Even in the the most mundane task of everyday life, do it for the Lord! Let’s all LIVE FULLY!!
Churchmouse, I feel where your coming from. May I suggest like I think one or two might have already you have a few people in to your home for a home service where you can control it. Or try a church where they do wear masks until which time you can go back to your own church.
Lizzie, I love what you said and love the song.
Zanita Fletcher, that is a great way to look at it and would like to pass that on if you don’t mind.
Angie, you have given me much to think about and contemplate on.
Taylor, you have given me two things to really strive for and set out to accomplish.
Elisha Anne, your thoughts have me wondering now about some of the same things.
Allison Bentley, I love what you said. You made my day, I hope you don’t mind if I pass it on.
CHURCHMOUSE: As I read your thoughts, your angst really, in regard to the optional vs mandatory use of face masks as churches in your area open up for gathering face-to-face, I hope to share a bit of my story with a gracious and compassionate response. I actually have wrestled with some of the same thoughts. Years ago, when my sensory sensitivities (fragrances, lights, noise, touch, etc.) ramped up, reactions from being at church (and at work, the grocery store, etc.) were causing a decline of heath to the point it was increasingly difficult to function. Though I attempted to ask for help at my church, the lack of understanding of my condition kept me from much support. In a moment of desperation during time with the Lord, I said your very words, “It’s just you and me, Jesus.” Astonishingly in my spirit, I heard a resounding “no, that’s not my way.”
Stunned at first, I eventually asked the Lord what he wanted me to do. He brought my attention to 2 Corinthians 12 in which Paul describes the body of Christ as God’s design. Since my love for Christ had been growing even in the midst of all the hard circumstances, loneliness and perplexity, my desire was (and is) to love those he loves. For a time I continued to press on and kept to church, but in time, my body broke down so much that I was incapacitated; I couldn’t even get off my bed without help for a time. I began to wonder if I should have kept pushing to go to church. There are many nuances to what the Lord has revealed of my heart as I spent much time asking the questions of him.
I’ve been homebound ever since; though not as bedbound as I once was. I’ve been doing the virtual thing for the past 12 years and like you, and the rest of our brothers and sisters, I long for the face-to-face gatherings to worship and serve the God we love together. Yet, though the longing is deep, gratitude of how the Lord has kept me persevering in this immensely difficult place. He has taught me how to lament in a way that is true, honest and humble. He has grown a love in my heart for my neighbor, for the brethren, and even for my enemies. I pray that as we continue to wrestle through the questions together (for like you, I have many), we remember that the church is us and we are called to love one another. So to love Jesus means loving the church.
Today I am a member of a church who is trying to help me connect virtually. I see that some people are ‘shut-ins’ for various reasons and the church has an opportunity to minister in these circumstances. Special situations need individual care. So we are continuing to search out ways to make it better, not only for me but others in special circumstances. It’s a slow process and I still can feel discouraged in the wait, yet I am hopeful.
Watching the Covid-19 situation play-out has reinforced that we are in desperate need of God to help us love each other well. As some have already said, our leaders are struggling to make wise decisions based on everyone’s needs. Some needs actually contradict others. For example, wearing a face mask for someone who has compromised lung capacity is actually dangerous for them. I, myself, react to the mask causing painful reactions. For this reason i aim to stay home as much as possible. I actually am not sure how to handle going to my next doctor’s appointment (whenever that may be). In other words, this situation is complicated and I pray that together leaders and members will seek the Lord and keep the lines of communication open.
Thanks, CHURCHMOUSE, for opening up this discussion. We need it, as the church!
I think it’s important to note enjoy, eat, drink and be merry BECAUSE you have me! Nothing to worry about because He is in control- sit back and enjoy the ride (while wearing your seatbelt and wearing a face mask; following His commands)
Today’s reading in Ecclesiastes gives voice to the unpredictability of life. To find enjoyment in life as circumstances allow is a challenge for the one whose life is more difficult than pleasant. I find it noteworthy that Solomon tells of how some experience a more pleasant life as a whole while others a more difficult one. In my own experience of many years of being disabled and homebound because of ME/CFS, this reality has often been dismissed or underplayed by those in a more comfortable life with “everyone suffers.” It is true; no one is free from trouble in this life. Yet, it also is true that some suffer more than others.
I imagine this is the cry of our fellow humans whose skin color has made their suffering greater than the more privileged. As I continue to lament their circumstances and pray for justice and changed hearts, I also pray that these suffering souls may find enjoyment in life as much as their circumstances will allow. Goodness, I pray this for the many lives broken and hidden by ME/CFS and similar complex illnesses. May the God of all mercy draw many to him and grant them salvation through faith in Jesus Christ which leads to eternal life. And may the hope of the resurrection at the second coming of our Lord help all the deeply suffering souls to persevere and have godly character produced in us through the refining fire.
Thank you Churchmouse for the wisdom you share on this site daily. Thank you also for your honest emotions. I hear your heart, and I understand a little bit, although no one can completely. This decision is between you and Jesus ultimately.
For the last two years I have wanted to change churches. The church we attend is great at building disciples for Christ, but not good at winning the lost. Except, every time I asked God for confirmation that it was okay to go, He showed me why He wanted me to stay.
I had to determine why I went to church. I decided…
I went for praise and worship…to dwell in the presence of the Savior in community with other believers. It was an opportunity to glorify God and it strengthened my spirit.
I went to be drawn into the Word of God as spoken through His vessel, to be stretched and to grow.
I went to fellowship with the body of believers. I need the wisdom and knowledge of others to help me see my weaknesses, God’s strengths, to grow my faith, and to draw closer to Him. My thinking can get off-track and self-centered so easily. I don’t even know it. Having people I am accountable to helps immensely, even in my own thought life.
And, I went to minister for the kingdom. There were people in that place that God loves and so do I. Some older, others younger. I didn’t do anything big – the only title I held was “friend,” but that was enough. That was His call.
My next questions was, “Well, can’t I do that at any church? Does it have to be here?”
And the answer is, “Yes, I can…and no, I can’t.” Yes, I can go to any church, no I can’t make a difference on my own, only if I am led by the Spirit of God. He might use my hands and feet, but it is His work that makes the difference. Where and When He shows up.
Then, I realized just how self-centered my reasons for attending church were. It is not that they are wrong, they are just all about, me. My worship time, my growth, my fellowship, even the ministry filled a spot in me that said…”you are making a difference here.” I felt like I mattered. And, bottom line, it isn’t about…me, period.
Here is what I came up with in the end. Where Jesus wants me, is where I want to be. He is my refuge and fortress, my God in whom I trust. Sort of like Ecclesiastes, in each day that He gives me breath, I will try to serve Him. I will try to live a life that makes a difference for Him. I will fail in many ways, but, I will try and keep trying. One decision, one step, one leap, one stumble at a time and He will guide me through.
Years ago, as a young mom in Bible Study Fellowship I said to the leaders, “I just wish we all went to the same church, think what a difference we could make for the kingdom together.” In her wisdom she answered, “Maybe it is better that we are not all in the same church. If each one reaches one, and that one reaches another, and we are spread out among nonbelievers, how many more will we bring into the kingdom.” It wasn’t about the ease and comfort for us, it was about His kingdom.
Also as a very young mom, there was a woman, Jackie Kitson, that I looked up to. She had wisdom from God and she shared it with us younger gals. She loved us with grace, while mercifully holding us accountable. What if Jackie had decided not to come to church? There were monumental times she pointed this arrogant, air-headed daughter of Christ’s focus back to where it belonged. There were so many times she gently but firmly spoke truth into my life. Her years of wisdom helped me time and time again in my personal walk with Jesus.
In regard to this virus. I share as someone who has had first hand experience. God went before us. He knew my husband would get it. I wait for my results and continue to stay isolated. I have symptoms, but not nearly as severe. Through this time the body of Christ has had an opportunity to love and minister. And we are left more humbled by it, (that is always a good thing). God supplied and continues to supply our needs.
Churchmouse, I pray you have God’s wisdom in your decision. May you have peace and follow His time table. The “church” as the body of Christ benefits from you. You are a part, and without you, that body is incomplete. How or where God uses you, only He can guide and give direction. As wonderful as your God given words, I believe, in the timing He gives, it would be a blessing for you to be in physical community with other believers. But again, His timing. He will guide. No one can make the decision when or if you return to church in the physical sense, only you and Jesus. We can share thoughts, just as Jackie Kitson did so often for me, but the decision is yours. God will guide you. It is my prayer that your decision will not be made out of fear of this virus, for God is still in control, yet…guided by the wisdom of the Father, for His plan for your life.
As always…I have too many words. Churchmouse, that is something I admire about you – God has given you the ability to be concise and wise. Thank you, and may God’s blessed presence strengthen, guide, and protect your every moment. Blessings.
Abundant joys and eternal pleasures! Praying I would live life abundantly for Christ. I was thinking yesterday about my sister, and about when she told me she believes Christ died/resurrected…But there was no joy or awe in her voice, it was like she was simply stating the weather. Trying to think of how I can ask her questions to get her to think about if she actually believes the Bible and all of what Jesus said to be true. She should have joy and the assurance of heaven if she did believe in him, but I don’t think that’s there. Love you all, thank you for your prayers! Praying for you all as well.
Very dear Churchmouse, I hear your pain. With all your insightful comments, please know how cherished you are! Though it is no substitute for a local body, I believe we are church everyday on this site. You are so loved by so many here for your wisdom and courage. It is not just you and Jesus!
Our church has decided not to open yet. As I am also high risk, I am not sure what I would have done if they opened. Surely not attend without everyone in masks.
I am so sorry to hear of your pain. I pray for brothers and sisters to gather you in His love, from 6 feet with masks! I pray you be so surrounded with His comfort that joy abounds. I pray this pain you are experiencing reap a great harvest! Only the Lord knows, of course, but perhaps you should start a home church! May the Lord send in His servants to remind you that you are not alone. You are loved. You are appreciated. You are the church.