Here I have something for you to chew on this week from Ecclesiastes. Eugene Peterson calls the author “the Quester” and writes in the introduction of The Message:
“Ecclesiastes” is a Greek word that is usually translated “the preacher” or “the teacher”. Because of the experiential stance of the writing in this book, giving voice to what is so basic among men and women through history, I have translated it “the Quester.”
One passage especially stopped me in my tracks and again I thought, it’s unbelievable that this has been written so long ago, and yet it is so relevant for today:
13 There is another serious problem I have seen under the sun. Hoarding riches harms the saver.
14 Money is put into risky investments that turn sour, and everything is lost. In the end, there is nothing left to pass on to one’s children.
(Tyndale House Publishers: Holy Bible : New Living Translation. 2nd ed. Wheaton, Ill. : Tyndale House Publishers, 2004, S. Ec 5:13-14)
Amazingly relevant in the present situation, isn’t it?
Let me add another quote, in case you decide to read that book for yourself. At times I could not help thinking, “Boy, this guys sounds depressed!” In case you get the same reaction, another part of Peterson’s introduction might be helpful:
Ecclesiastes challenges the naïve optimism that sets a goal that appeals to us and then goes after it with gusto, expecting the result to be a good life. The author’s cool skepticism, refreshing negation to the lush and seductive suggestions swirling around us, promising everything but delivering nothing, clears the air. And once the air is cleared, we are ready for reality – for God.
Let’s get ready for reality!
P.S. In case you are looking for the audiobook – on Amazon.com the author of the printed books is Eugene H. Peterson, the author of the audiobook is Eugene H. Petersen. 😉