Father, what knowledge Solomon amassed!
He observed and did a great many things and yet categorized them as
“meaningless”.
He did recognize some things as having value. “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: if either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” And “two will keep warm…and defend themselves.” So Father, send another to help me up when I fall. And help me keep warm, and defend myself. It may be a friend or family member, or even a stranger You send at the right time. And let me be there for someone else in their time of need.
“It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it. Do not let your mouth lead you into sin.” So Father, let my ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ and my ‘no’ mean ‘no’, not making promises I cannot or will not keep. Help me avoid being “quick with my mouth or hasty with my heart”, but consider my thoughts, feelings, words and commitments carefully.
When I think about Solomon I wonder, if he ever held his newborn and marveled at the miracle of life? Did he watch and help that child grow and learn? Did he pass on his knowledge and love of You to that child and see him come to love and worship You too? Did he promise his life to one person and live faithfully in that covenant; having their support and love for a lifetime? Did he examine each animal and plant, but forget to marvel at the diversity and imagination and power of You, the Creator? Did he share his life with a friend who stuck with him through thick and thin, good and bad? And console that friend and receive comfort from them? Did he hold the hand of a dying loved one and tell them they are loved, all is forgiven, and “I will see you in heaven”?
To me, these are the things that are most meaning-FULL. The relationships, the connections with people that You allow into my life – that’s where the meaning lies. I agree that amassing wealth, building buildings and writing volumes of knowledge will all pass away. But loving You and sharing Your love with others – these things are eternal.
Father, remind me not to chase after the wind, but to chase only after You. Amen.
Daily Bible Prayer 