The Secret of Wholeness
“Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.” Ecclesiastes 12:13
When I venture into the library, I see a hundred books I would like to read, or rather, I would like to know the contents of, so that I might live more fully. Even this morning, I received an e-mail which contained a book recommendation: something about why we make mistakes and how to make fewer of them by Pulitzer Prize winner, Joseph T. Hallinan. So many books, so little time! I wish there were book condensations, summaries of great idea books in a few pages, so we would know the bottom line of all things wise.
The Preacher of Ecclesiastes does this. You have heard all the sides of the argument that he feels are relevant, and here in less than a dozen words is the condensation of the most important secret of wholeness.
“Fear, revere, trust in, set your affections” on God. The fruit of such reverence will be obedience to His commands as summarized by Jesus, loving God fully and your neighbor as yourself. This is the whole purpose of every child of Adam, and it will lead us to wholeness. This is what makes us entire, wanting nothing.
Now you have it. Ponder this powerful summary today on your journey to wholeness.
By Donna B. Alder, Professor Emeritus of Biology, Roberts Wesleyan College and Vice Chair of the NBC Board of Trustees
Published: 05/28/2019
Archived News