Vanity of Vanities
Afflictions, sufferings, sickness and death are nothing new to humanity. No one, no matter how successful, can escape them. Alexander the Great, who long ago possessed a vast empire, realized the vanity of this life. At his burial he wanted people to know that no doctor could save him from death, all material wealth means nothing in the end, for empty handed he came into the world and empty handed he would depart. In modern society cases of depression and the sense of emptiness are becoming more widespread. Sometimes it takes traumatic events to cause us to consider life’s difficult questions [for example, what is the meaning of life?], and some begin to sink under a feeling that “all is vanity and a chasing after the wind.” (Eccl. 1:14) While the Bible exposes this condition, it also provides the most excellent and wonderful solution – “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Col. 1:27) When we accept and receive Jesus Christ into our heart, He saves us from hopelessness and He Himself comes to live inside of us as our hope. With Christ in us, even if our outward environment is difficult, we realize it is just a momentary affliction when compared to eternal glory. May the eyes of your heart be enlightened that you may know what is the hope of His calling, and may you answer His call by receiving Jesus into your heart.