Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 is a text that one can turn to in times that span from joy to pain. A time to weep a time to laugh. A time to mourn a time to dance. In the significant moments of life, I always come back to these words that show the depth of what humanity experiences.
The first time I embraced the words of Ecclesiastes is when my mother passed away unexpectedly. I gave birth to my first son only five weeks prior to her death so trying to make sense of her death was impossible. How could my mother be gone? There was so much I planned to do with her. I needed her desperately. How would I raise a newborn with hemophilia?
In the midst of my grief, the words of Ecclesiastes seemed to jump off the page. I knew these were the words that were to be read at my mother’s funeral. These words stay with me during the good and bad times. These words and verbs speak to the seasons of our lives. They are words that bind us by our common human experience. These words capture a truth that is often difficult to embrace. They are words that capture truth. These words offer a framework for the journey of humanity.
During these hot summer months, I invite you to spend some time reflecting on Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Whatever season you are in, I pray that you find comfort in these words knowing that you are not alone. Whether it is joy, grief, or somewhere in between, may the Almighty surround you with peace. May the grace of Jesus Christ and the companionship of the Holy Spirit accompany you in your journey.
Beloved, you are never alone.