Seasons Of Activity

The book of Ecclesiastes is a book of perspective written by a man who the Bible says was the wisest man on earth. Wisdom is to be asked for and God given. Solomon starts this book by the meaninglessness of chasing the wind. "We don't remember what happened in the past, and in future generations, no one will remember what we are doing now." Eccl. 1:11

So the crop is in. It's in various sizes and stages. The stands are from great to whatever. We are now in the killing weeds and mowing grass mode. In Ecclesiastes 2 Solomon talks about the futility and foolishness of chasing the 'good things' in life. We can plan, prepare, and plant, however the Lord determines the outcome, for which I am grateful.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 talks about a season for every activity. And then in his own words, relevant for his time 3000 yrs ago, Solomon talks about seasons for hard work, rest, building, new life, weddings, ball games, elections, graduations, and birthday parties.

Solomon concludes this section with vs 11, that God has made everything beautiful in His own time. He has planted eternity in our hearts. Even so, we can't see or comprehend the whole scope of God's purpose. Vs. 12-13, life is a gift, so enjoy the ride. And vs 14-15, God's purpose for past, present, and future is final. And what is happening now has happened before, and will happen again.

Ecclesiastes 4 talks about the advantages of companionship. Yesterday morning after a beautiful half inch of rain, our office was full for morning coffee and Jan's baked goodies. I asked the older grandkids if they would please replace a broken shift cable on our cab Ranger. They did awesome.

Ecclesiastes 3:7 says there is a time to be quiet, and a time to speak. I take this advice very seriously. I'm going to give you my opinion this morning and am not offended if you feel differently. I went to the auditors office and voted for Adam Friday morning. I feel Randy is Washington politics and seems to come across as not wanting to serve the grass roots of Iowa. Zach is a contender and has come on strong as of late. He is a self funded millionaire which does not disqualify him. He is also a bit of an unknown, and when digging deeper, his experiences and stories don't always add up. Brad is a pastor and constitutionalist. He's older than myself. He loves the Lord, but lacks experience. Eddie is a likable guy, a praise team leader in his church, an Iowa legislature, but lacks the ability to lead a state. 

Adam has experience running a state, working under Governor Kim. He has the leadership and confidence needed. He is grass roots. During the six counties I drove him to, he consistently asked me to help him pray for discernment and wisdom before each visit. If you're in the area, Id invite you to come visit with Adam tomorrow, Monday evening @ Smokey Row in Oskaloosa.

Natalie (BJ and Cassia) and Allison (Mark and Stacy) graduated from 8th grade at Oskaloosa Christian Friday evening. Growing up I changed schools five times and attended both public and parent run schools during my k-12 education. In all my years I have been thankful for Christian education.

Solomon writes one of my favorite verses in this story: "It is appropriate and good for a person to make a living, and find satisfaction in their work during the few days God has given them, for this is their destiny. Moreover, when God gives possessions, the ability to enjoy them, to accept their destiny, and to be happy in their work, this is a gift from God. They seldom look back on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with the gladness of heart". Ecclesiastes 5:18-20 (condensed)

Let's keep a clear perspective on the seasons of our activities, and then enjoy them.