In Ecclesiastes, a collection of wisdom from the teacher who has been king over Israel and the son of David, reflected on timing and the planned or unanticipated activities under his watch. Later in life, he reflected on his journey in the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. He shared his insight with the recurring theme that "everything is meaningless." The book concludes that God will judge every deed – both righteous and wicked – in due course. The teacher revealed this through a number of insightful observations, which is timely and timeless.

Overall, the book makes observations and poses questions. Some metaphorical expressions include themes like the wind – “round and round it goes, ever returning on its course” (there is no end or beginning).

In Ecclesiastes 3:2-8, the author imparts wisdom about timing in life when carrying out seemingly opposing actions through each of the 14 "a time to ... " items: (1) be born & die, (2) plan & uproot (3) kill & heal (4) tear down & build (5) weep & laugh (6) mourn & dance (7) scatter & gather stones (8) embrace & refrain from it (9) search & give up (10) keep & throw away (11) tear & mend (12) be silent & speak (13) love & hate (14) make war & make peace.

I hope you and I are glad to know that God will call the past to account – both righteous and the wicked – for there will be a time for every activity, a time to judge every deed (verse 17). In verse 22, the author reminded us that there is nothing better for us than to enjoy our work with the gift we are blessed. For who (other than God) can bring us to see what will happen next? Indeed, our Lord Jesus, God is in control of everything.

Have a blessed and wonderful new year.