Light is sweet; how pleasant to see a new day dawning. When people live to be very old, let them rejoice in every day of life. But let them also remember there will be many dark days. Everything still to come is meaningless. (Ecclesiastes 11:7–8)
It was a great moment in my adult life when I realised that life was meant to be enjoyed rather than simply endured. I cannot recall when that thought became a conscious reality to me. It certainly did not transpire overnight, but perhaps over a period of several years I distinctly remember being slowly freed up from former self-imposed restrictions. I remember entertaining the thought that since I am the kind of person who really enjoys life, why should I try to hide it?
If you were to walk down the streets of the town where you live and ask the people you meet, “What are you waiting for to enjoy life?” I think you would get one of three different answers, and each one finds its origin in the world’s system in which we live.
Under-the-Sun Answers
Here’s the first that comes to mind: “I’m waiting until I have the things I’ve always wanted. When that happens, then I’ll be happy.” That directly connects happiness with material possessions. This cuts cross-grain with Jesus’ words: “Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions” (Luke 12:15 NASB 1995).
Another answer people would give is “I’m waiting for a person who will fulfil my life.” Frequently, this answer comes from someone who is unhappily single or from the couple who is anxious to start a family. Many would say they’re waiting for a friend to relieve their loneliness.
We can’t depend on people for our happiness. We may invest much time and emotion in cultivating a close friendship, only to be let down with heartaches. No, if you’re counting on a human being to bring you happiness, you’re in for a lifetime of waiting.
There is a third possible answer: “I’m waiting until I have achieved my goals and realised my dreams.” How many have dreams on the horizon and think, “I’ll be so happy when I accomplish my plans.” However great the dream may be, and as much as it may keep us plugging, chances are extremely good that it will never bring satisfaction. The realisation of our dreams will never make us smile contentedly deep within.
Above-the-Sun Answers
This is going to sound terribly familiar, but repetition reinforces the truth. Happiness is for today. Joy is accessible now. We are not to put it on hold. Happiness isn’t something that will open up to us when we turn sixty-five, or when we reach some goal, or find the right partner. Happiness is for now. It is inseparably linked to the living Lord.
