They take delight in doing his bidding, always ready for his service on earth; and when their time comes they never disobey his command.
Ecclesiasticus 39:31
These words are attributed to Ben Sirach, a Jewish scribe who lived in Jerusalem two hundred years before the birth of Christ. His writings have traditionally been called Ecclesiasticus, meaning "of the Church," because they are frequently used in Christian teaching and worship. Ecclesiasticus is a compilation of ethical teachings, which are applicable to all conditions of life. Many of them are rules of courtesy and politeness; others contain advice and instruction as to the duties of man toward himself and others, especially the poor, as well as toward society and the state, and most of all toward God.
This particular passage presents a rather idealized view of humanity, one in which men happily do God's work without questioning or disobeying. Most of us probably agree that this is not a very accurate picture of mankind.
We do understand, on an intellectual level, that because God freely offered up his only begotten son to absolve us of our sins, we are to love and to serve him. Yet even the most faithful among us struggle to follow this mandate. While it seems insignificant when compared to the sacrifice of Jesus for our sins, far too often we choose to ignore God's plan to follow our desires.
This Lent, as we reflect on the meaning of Christ's death, each of us should set aside time for self-examination. Do we really know what God's plan is for us? If so, are we as faithful Christians, obediently following His plan?
Tricia Hurlbutt
