Last week, I was blessed with the opportunity to be part of a wedding one weekend and a funeral the next. You may ask, How is that a blessing? The blessing came in the moments I celebrated and remembered with others. The wedding between my sister Dakota LaFrance and Jose Valdez was full of fun and laughter as we celebrated their marriage and their excitement at the announcement of a welcomed addition to their family. What a day to celebrate and the chance to walk her down the aisle.
Fast forward to this past weekend, I was part of celebrating the life of Faye Skaggs, who lived 95 beautiful years. During this day of celebration, I listened to and remembered her influence on so many others. We listened to beautiful scripture by grandchildren and enjoyed a potluck of country-loving food and desserts. One of the closing verses I remember the pastor saying was, “well done, good and faithful servant.”
Whatever stage you may be in today, from early marriage to the age of 95, everyone yearns for a fulfilled life unfettered by regrets. When our fin”l bell tolls for us, we all hope for a life well lived.
How do we get there? Some think it is in our finances; others would say in our wisdom. Others believe in who you surround yourself with. Today’s reading of Ecclesiastes, written by Solomon, discusses what he discovered in his time. Solomon pursued every pleasure, fulfilled every passion, and took advantage of every opportunity.
Solomon said it was all in vanity.
People all around us are desperately searching for meaning. Think of a family member, friend, or neighbor searching for meaning apart from God. Pray for time this week to speak to them about the futility of finding meaning in themselves or in this world. Let them know about the meaning we find in any hills or valleys in our Lord Jesus. A life well-lived doesn’t come without pain, confusion, or sorrow. Our personal relationship with our Lord will free us from the daily scramble for power, approval, and money and draw us closer to God.
I have seen all the works which have been done under the sun, and behold, all is vanity and striving after wind. ~ Ecclesiates 1:14
Today’s Reading is Ecclesiastes 1:1-18
Have a well-lived life today!