When creativity and authenticity are not enough.
PreFlight
There is very little as frustrating, for me, as when I’m told something is not possible. I’m inclined to believe I am a creative person, capable of unusual solutions and approaches. But Ecclesiastes resets my perspective, and points me toward the reality of this life, and of eternity.
Ecclesiastes, Chapter 7, seems to be totally upside down. An honest reading of the chapter should move the reader to question why things we normally consider not all that good are being presented as being better.
Sorrow is better than laughter? Really???
Well… yes, it is. It is if you consider the source of both.
I believe that is the main point of the whole book. Solomon is forcing us to consider what’s at the center of our own hearts. He challenges us to rethink the reasons we are sorrowful, and the reasons we are delighted for.
Is it the creativity displayed by your work? Is it the authenticity of your endeavors?
The Preacher proposes that what really matters is knowing God and our real condition. In other words, we are called to deal with reality in a honest way:
- No one can change God’s work, no matter how creative / authentic we believe we are.
- Finding our definition in what others are saying is dangerous.
- We are as messed up as the next guy.
Enabled by the Triune God of the Universe to embrace this wisdom, we are set free from pride and idolatry – which insist we should find total satisfaction in our authentic creativity – constantly looking for affirmation from fellow sinners, and now we can pursue our dreams, big and small, having the real satisfaction already secured, not by the results of our labor but by the firmness of His Beauty.
Trajectory
How much do you value creativity and authenticity? Why? Repent, confess, and celebrate accordingly.
Remember His grace, Follow Him in humility, Cultivate constantly, All in cultural diversity.
