Finishing Fine
(Ecclesiastes 7:1-18, 27-29;
8:1
10:1-20;
11:1-6;
12:11-12)
End of School
Artist Unknown
Bible scholars classify Ecclesiastes as one of the Books of Wisdom in the Bible. Presumably penned by King Solomon of Israel, Ecclesiastes focuses largely on godly wisdom as a key to blessing and life’s meaning.
Today’s reading includes several key verses, extolling the importance of wisdom and how it trumps other possessions.
“Wisdom is a shelter as money is a shelter,
but the advantage of knowledge is this:
that wisdom preserves the life of its possessor.”
Within the next week or so, most students and teachers will celebrate the end of the traditional school year. This may be a bittersweet occasion, but most will rejoice enthusiastically at the completion of academic pursuits for the year.
Of course, at the end of the summer vacation, many will look forward eagerly to the beginning of a new semester. Plenty of young people eagerly anticipate reunions with friends. Even teachers and administrators may welcome the convocation of school in the fall. A regular schedule (and paycheck) may be very real assets.
Still, the end of the school year and the successful finish of a course of study is a much greater celebration. What student, parent, teacher or school administrator does not greet this occasion with pride and purpose?
Perhaps this super season offers us a glimpse at the meaning of the Teacher in Ecclesiastes:
“The end of a matter is better than its beginning,
and patience is better than pride.”
Celebrate summer! Proudly break through that finish line tape. Families, students and faculties: well done.
In the larger picture, may we continue to press on towards the completion of our God-given purpose. May God grant us the grace and power to do His calling. And may He make us ready for His own finish line celebration.
Hallelujah!
Will you pray with me?
Great God,
You have called us to participate
In Your work,
And we are humbled by it.
We are grateful to be part
Of Your plan.
Encourage us,
Empower us,
And urge us onward,
So that we may finish fine
In Your time.
Amen.
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