Remember

“Remember Him before the silver cord is broken and the golden bowl is crushed, the pitcher by the well is shattered and the wheel at the cistern is crushed; then the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it.” Ecclesiastes 12:6, 7

When the Bill Clinton presidential campaign was pursuing the White House in 1991 they constantly reminded themselves of the core issue with the meme; ITS THE ECONOMY, STUPID! It was an acknowledgement that with so many issues and crises swirling around, it would be easy to forget why they were there. 

“It’s hard to remember you came to drain the swamp when you’re up to your hips in alligators!”

So, after eleven chapters of reminding us how meaningless life is, how does Solomon conclude this dissertation? We can be assured he undertook this entire venture with a sober mind and sincere heart since he reminds us...“he taught the people everything he knew. He listened carefully to many proverbs, studying and classifying them...seeking to find just the right words to express truths clearly.” Acknowledging the words of the wise are sometimes  painful, he reminds us they are also helpful. 

So, he continues, “here now is my final conclusion:

1 Remember him in the days of your youth...before you grow old and say, “Life is not pleasant anymore.” 

2 Remember him before the light of the sun, moon, and stars is dim to your old eyes, and rain clouds continually darken your sky. 

3 Remember him before your legs start to tremble; and your shoulders stoop. Before your teeth stop grinding; and before your eyes see dimly.

4 Remember him before the door to life’s opportunities is closed and the sound of work fades.

5 Remember him before you near the grave, your everlasting home, when the mourners will weep at your funeral.

6 Yes, remember your Creator now while you are young, before the silver cord of life snaps and the golden bowl is broken. For then the body will return to the earth,

Its all we need to know in order to find purpose and meaning in life; “Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone’s duty. God will judge us for everything we do, including every secret thing, whether good or bad.” 

And then, the spirit will return to God who gave it. That’s the whole story. 

Live boldly out there today...