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Meaningless, Pt. 1

Sunday I started a 4-part series on the book of Ecclesiastes. We started by looking at Ecclesiastes 2:9-11. I would encourage each of you to take time and read through the book in its entirety each week. Here’s what we looked at this week:

What I want us to see is that even if we could have everything we have ever desired and then some, it would not be enough. At the end of the day we would feel empty, we would want more, and we would feel like something was missing. All the wealth, friends, and material articles in this world will leave us wanting more.

  1. There is enjoyment in life (9-10a)
  2. There is joy in working hard for something (10b)
  3. All is meaningless (11)

So what should we take away from this passage?

  1. Pleasure-seeking usually becomes a selfish endeavor. So remember, People are more important than things and thrills. We are to be channels, not reservoirs; the greatest joy comes when we share God’s pleasures with others.
  2. If you live for pleasure alone, enjoyment will decrease unless the intensity of the pleasure increases. So remember that when pleasure alone is the center of life, the result will ultimately be disappointment and emptiness.
  3. Pleasure alone can never bring satisfaction: it appeals to only part of the person and ignores the total being. True pleasure not only brings delight, but it also builds character by enriching the total person.

My goal in life: Love God and Serve Others

The book that portrays the pointlessness of everything really does have a point to make!

  1. Solomon had it all and yet felt empty, what are you trying to go after that is ultimately leaving you empty?
  2. In what way this week can you share or show Christ to someone?
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Jesus Knows Pt. 1

Last night I started a 3 part mini-series with the Crosstrainers. With the celebration of Easter fresh in our minds I believe it is a good time to look at not just the crucifixion and resurrection but to also take a look at the events surrounding them.

The whole idea of “Jesus Knows” is that Jesus didn’t die because He was in the wrong place at the wrong time; He knew it was going to happen and even had the power to get away. His death was ordained by God so we could be made right by Him.

Text: John 18:1-11

  1. Jesus faced the Father’s will with confidence
    1. He finishes His direction to the disciples and does not linger, He makes it a point to go where He will meet His captures
    2. Jesus did not lead the disciples to an unfamiliar location in an attempt to dodge the soldiers
  2. Jesus did not run when confronted
    1. Jesus did not hide but took the initiative…Jesus was the first one to speak, no soldier or religious leader spoke before Jesus
    2. Even when at the sound of His name all those around Him fell, He again assures that He is the one they are looking for
  3. Jesus did not falter when those closest to Him ran
    1. Jesus frees His disciples
    2. Disciples flee
    3. Judas kills himself/Peter, while confident when he was with Jesus’ followers, alone he struggles and denies Christ

So here are some “Reflection” thoughts:

  1. Peter was strongest when he was with those that shared his love for Jesus, but when he was alone he often faltered. Do you find yourself like Peter when you are alone left to stand for your faith? What can help you in times like this?
  2. Jesus faced his captures with compassion, patience, selflessness, boldness, etc. When you face people challenging your beliefs, how do you respond?
  3. Paul challenges in 1 Corinthians 11: 1 to imitate him as he imitates Christ. Do you know the Jesus of the Bible? What can you do to better get to know your Savior, Jesus Christ?