Futility, Meaning, and Life under the Sun

Ecclesiastes is a challenging book. It highlights the futility of life as death comes for every single person, whether wise or foolish. Its relentless refrain, “all is vanity and a striving after the wind, and there was nothing to be gained under the sun,” seems to suffocate any hope or any enjoyment in life. But as the author systematically demolishes false hopes for lasting meaning and as he gazes unflinchingly at the injustices of life amidst experiences of true beauty, a path of wisdom emerges grounded in relationship with our Creator. This wisdom prompts us to live with enjoyment, meaning, purpose, and hope in God, who through Jesus Christ ultimately rescues us from futility.