One day we will have to give an account of our lives. When we do, we shall see what really had worth. It is important to realise this so that we can know now what is really worthwhile and not be found lacking. Solomon’s point about the fate of humans being just like animals can be mistaken unless we grasp the very specific point he is making. From one perspective we do end up just like animals and from this perspective life seems indeed to be meaningless. But he also hints at the truth that after death “the human spirit rises upward” leaving it open for us to reflect on this. The point is that, unless we are connected to God in this life, we are indeed like the other animals. What distinguishes us is our relationship with God. Animals go through life just securing what they need for subsistence and pleasure. But we humans have a purpose because we are children of God. When we step up into this purpose, we step up into our human dignity. We are called to live on a higher plain than the rest of creation. We live to implement the purpose of God, to fill the earth and to subdue it under God’s wonderful plan. We are here to bring out the best in creation and in each other. We are here to love, care and steward. We have to make a deliberate decision every day about how we are going to live. Will you be human, or just another animal?
How can you be more purposeful again today?
Read Ecclesiastes 3:15-22
