Life is a Search for God

Homily for Thursday of the Twenty-fifth Week in Ordinary Time

One look at the citation for today’s first reading tells us that we are beginning at the second verse of the Book of Ecclesiastes. The first verse is actually the title of this biblical book. It reads: “The Words of Qoheleth, the Son of David, King in Jerusalem.” The word “Qoheleth” means “preacher” or “teacher.” Inasmuch as I have been both a teacher and a preacher, he fascinates me. There are three reasons to believe that Solomon is the author of this book. First of all, he was a preacher and a teacher for his subjects. Secondly, he was the son of David. And finally, he was the king of Jerusalem.

At the same time, we must admit that most of the evidence that points to Solomon as the author of this book comes in the final verses where we read, “Qoheleth taught the people knowledge, and weighed, scrutinized and arranged many proverbs.” One aspect of the life of Solomon that sets him apart from all the other kings of Israel is that there was no prophet in Israel at the time of Solomon’s reign. Consequently, the king himself took up the role of teaching and preaching.

Solomon is usually referred to as the wise king of Israel. However, we also know that Solomon chose to use his wisdom in a less-than-God-honoring way. He married an outrageous number of women and had concubines in addition to those. Even more disturbing, there were times when Solomon joined his wives in worshiping their false gods. Ecclesiastes presents the story of a man who sought happiness everywhere but in God and came to the conclusion that God is ultimately all that matters. This certainly agrees with the Bible’s depiction of Solomon, at least in terms of his wisdom, wealth, and spiritual knowledge.

We hear of another king in today’s Gospel text. St. Luke reports that King Herod said: “I beheaded John. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” His curiosity is not satisfied, however, until Pilate sends Jesus to Herod who hopes that Jesus will answer his questions. Jesus refuses to even speak to Herod who is still curious but unsatisfied.

The words that begin the Book of Ecclesiastes comment on the emptiness of human life. Both Solomon and Herod would probably have experienced the kind of emptiness of which the writer speaks. At the same time, we must admit that this particular book from the Hebrew Scriptures has its place. It tells us that times of desolation are understandable. It also reassures us that the questions and doubts that we might have are not sinful. God understands. Finally, it reminds those of us who are more constantly sunny that there are others who are much troubled about life, the world, and even about God. We are reminded that God calls us to share the joy of the Good News, especially with those who are despondent.