Ecclesiastes 5:13-20

Ecclesiastes 5:13-20New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

There is a grievous ill that I have seen under the sun: riches were kept by their owners to their hurt, and those riches were lost in a bad venture; though they are parents of children, they have nothing in their hands. As they came from their mother’s womb, so they shall go again, naked as they came; they shall take nothing for their toil, which they may carry away with their hands. This also is a grievous ill: just as they came, so shall they go; and what gain do they have from toiling for the wind? Besides, all their days they eat in darkness, in much vexation and sickness and resentment.

This is what I have seen to be good: it is fitting to eat and drink and find enjoyment in all the toil with which one toils under the sun the few days of the life God gives us; for this is our lot. Likewise all to whom God gives wealth and possessions and whom he enables to enjoy them, and to accept their lot and find enjoyment in their toil—this is the gift of God. For they will scarcely brood over the days of their lives, because God keeps them occupied with the joy of their hearts.

"Meaningless" is another word often used rather than futility or vapor or smoke in Ecclesiastes. And as you read this first paragraph, the meaninglessness of riches becomes apparent. "

You come in with nothing. And you go out with nothing.

And yet, says the teacher, this is what is good: to enjoy what you have when you have it.

To be present in this moment of time and savor it.

To enjoy relationship and companionship.

To share a meal and drink and gather together.

We live in a culture that instead seems always to be looking for "more" or "better." More money, more stuff, better clothing, better cars.

And yet once they come, the enjoyment often turns to vapor. 

And we look for the next thing.

Is there something you have already - or a person you care about but haven't connected with in a while; a group you've been wanting to be a part of; a class you want to take; a party you've wanted to throw - that you can reach in and enjoy now? Make the most of?

Celebrate?

Find joy with?

You have this moment. 

Make the most of it!

God of now, open my eyes and heart to what and who is before me and the possibilities of them. Amen.