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March 11, 2024A fundamental question is what is the meaning of life? For some life does not have a meaning. For others life is too short so make it as fun as possible. Many philosophers have tried to find out what is the meaning of life. The hedonists believe that life is about pleasure. Aristotle was a bit more profound and said life is about seeking happiness. Many have had the interaction with small children, and they ask the same question: why? Why do I have to go to school? The response is to get an education. And then they continue but why do I have to get an education? And the response would be so that you can have a career? But why? And the exasperated parent continues to explain so the child can have money. And the persistent and cunning child continues to ask, “but why?” Until the parents ends up everything abruptly by stating, “Because I told you so.” Even small children know they are here for a reason. They are really asking about the meaning of life. They also start to realize that life is very much limited, there will be a time when they too will die. I remember when I found out that we all die, it was much surprising, and much depressing. I didn’t want to die. I also remember thinking that the world was going to end in the year 2000 so I kept thinking to myself, “that does not give enough time to do anything in my life.” I was very concerned about fulfilling my goals and aspirations. I needed time. I thought it was very unfair to be created so we could die. And at the same time, I thought time is running out, so I need to do something with my life. For some people life is meaningless so it does not matter what happens in this life. For some other people, life is short, so they need to make the best of it, fulfilling their own interests. For others life is about doing what is best for you. The expression “you do you” is often used. From a young age people are encouraged to succeed, but what the world calls success is different to what the Lord calls success. The readings today are clear if we live for ourselves alone, our life is futile. If we spend our limited time in this world, only in our selfish desires, our time is wasted. If there is no belief there is life after death, and nothing is done to help others then the time has been wasted while in this world. It is clear God has put people in this world, for a purpose. The purpose is to give their lives in the service of others. It has been said very clearly and repeated very often: whoever does not live to serve, does not know how to live. Let’s not waste our time here in this world but apply ourselves as servants of the Lord to help others. It’s worth it! It matters! Because if we use of time well while in this world and serve others, Jesus is very clear “The Father will honor whoever serves me.” And he is also very clear that whoever lives for himself or herself will die alone. Let us not try to take advantage of others but help others while there is still time. Some people think they are so smart but end up being fools by losing their lives to the world. Perhaps this Lenten season it could be used to learn a little more about being obedient to the will of God. Perhaps with this Lent we can become more service-oriented, knowing that when time is applied to helping others, it’s not wasted but can create much fruit. Let us grow in service during Lent, let us really start living for the purpose we were created, and accomplish our full potential while in this life.
