This week we consider one of the more popular or famous sections in the book of Ecclesiastes, a poem about the different seasons of life. The Preacher notes, "For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3:1). The poem describes the sovereignty of God over all seasons and how there is a divinely appointed time for everything. While we can choose to live independently or co-dependently, the sovereignty of God over all seasons of life cultivates in us a dependence upon God.

Through the poem we can be encouraged to surrender our lives the kind and kingly rule of Jesus. We are encouraged to sing and come to God in prayer. If God holds all things in His hand, who else can we turn to? Lastly, we can be encouraged to savor Our Savior, Jesus of Nazareth. The opposite pairings in the poem, center on the person and work of Jesus. He died, that we might experience new birth. Jesus was killed that we might be healed. Jesus wept and mourned that we might laugh and dance in everlasting joy in His presence. Jesus lost His life, that sinners would find life in Him. Jesus was hated that we might be loved by God and forgiven of our sins. As we seek to savor our Savior, we are drawn to love God and love our neighbors as ourselves.