Good morning. On Thursday I asked you to consider the question French philosopher Albert Camus raised in his essay The Myth of Sisyphus. Camus’ philosophical struggle was in the absurdity of mankind’s nature calling us to find meaning in life while the universe around us refuses to give answers. My point for our consideration Thursday was that contentment is possible for mankind when we find our satisfaction in the truth of God and in our destiny to be with Him throughout eternity. Please allow me today to build upon that thought a little further.
In Genesis 1:26 we reach the point in the narrative of God creating the universe where He chooses to create man. He (they, for it is given in plural) says: “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness…” and in 2:7 we read of the distinctive process of man’s creation: Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.
I believe that this verse telling of man’s creation is the key to Camus’ question, and also the key to so much of mankind’s striving in life. It is a key part of our nature, I am speaking of mankind in general, to seek what Camus calls “meaning” in life. This need is universal to mankind, and we see throughout history how people, kingdoms, and nations have tried to provide an answer to meet that inner need. There have been any number of religions, philosophies, and faith systems that have tried and failed. There have been mighty conquests, the gathering of incredible wealth, and the trials of what we sometimes call “wine, women & song.” There have been hobbies and worthy causes, crime and incredible violence, songs, poems, and all forms of artistic endeavor. All of these and much, much more have been directed toward filling that void within and to find meaning and satisfaction. None of it is ever enough. Those efforts can’t do the job, and Camus is correct in his assertion that the unworthy effort leaves the person who is trying empty and discouraged.
Now for the good news: with all my heart I believe that there is an answer, and no, it is not in finding some kind of satisfaction in knowing you’ve done your best to roll your stupid rock up the hill.
The key is to recognize the unique nature of man’s creation. God chose to breathe into mankind His Spirit, and by doing so man became a living being. The word “living” makes all of the difference for it is saying that mankind spiritually joined with God and the creatures of the heavenly, spiritual realm. This means that there is a place within us to be one with God. This place allows a special community with Him (in plural). Adam and Eve enjoyed walking, talking, and fellowshipping with God without barrier or hindrance of any kind. They were fulfilled and complete. Then came sin.
The effect of sin was to cause separation from God, for God does not exist within evil and impurity. This separation from sin creates a void within man, collectively and individually. It is an empty place where God is intended to be. It is the critical place, the most unique and important aspect of our nature and our being. When it is empty there is a wild craving, an irresistible need to have it filled. However, nothing can fill that place but God Himself, although every human being is driven in an effort to satisfy that need. The list given above shows but a few of the ways we have tried unsuccessfully to fill that void left by God’s absence.
The power of God’s love does not leave us without hope. The Messiah, Jesus, came to us to provide the answer, our way to fill that void. There are many scriptures that tell us of finding unity with God through our acceptance of Jesus as our Savior. 1 Corinthians 6:7 is succinct and clear: But he who unites himself with the Lord is one with Him in spirit.
Jesus is the answer. Jesus is the way to finding peace within ourselves. Jesus fills the void by cancelling the sin that created the void in the first place. Jesus is the answer, the satisfaction of our longing.
Praise God and claim peace!
Vern