Yesterday we saw all of creation groaning in anticipation of rescue. Today, Ecclesiastes brings that story home to each one of us. This longing isn't just "out there" in the world, it's also "in here" deep in the hidden places of the human heart.

Here we read how God has "put eternity in their hearts", built and created with capacity to digest far more than this passing world can provide. When we encounter eternal things, our hearts know it! We know what beauty is when we stand on the edge of a majestic mountain range, but we never seem to have enough of it. We've tasted both joy and the truth that joy seems to fade. Regardless how much we build, obtain, celebrate, or achieve, there's something in our inner beings whispering ever so softly, "There must be more."

We were never meant to feel at home in a world still marked by death, loss, and grief. He placed this eternity in our hearts to ensure the temporary things of this world would never, could never, satisfy us. The many gifts the Lord has given us are ours to enjoy, but they aren't ultimate, our blessings were never designed to carry the fully weight of our souls. Only He can do that.

On this earth even our most precious moments eventually fade and pass away. Sunsets fade, children grow up, even answered prayers often leave us looking for more. All because He made us for a different Kingdom; a Kingdom that has only partially arrived and whose fullness is yet to be seen.

Ecclesiastes also reminds us that even though we can't know or discover the fullness of His work from beginning to end and we can't control its timeline, we feel its eternity. We can sense there's more to the story, but it isn't as clear as we'd like to be. That tension isn't bondage, it's freedom! We have no call or requirement to solve the greatest mystery of all time. We are called to trust God, the One who holds it closely.

So, the next time you notice that eternal longing in your soul, don't seek to numb it or ignore it. It's a holy and righteous reminder that you really were made for more. Your restlessness draws you ever more near to the God of Creation and ever deeper into His peace.

As all creation groans for HIs return, we can hear echoes of the familiar tune in our own expectant hearts.

We all have temporary things which tend to capture our fancy and to which we look for lasting satisfaction. What things to you find drawing your gaze when you feel restless and wanting? How does Ecclesiastes 3:11 help you understand the deeper reason your heart still yearns for more?

Father, it is a great comfort to know you've placed eternity in my heart. Forgive me for turning to temporary things to satisfy the eternal longing in my soul. Help me to be grateful and anchor all my hopes in You, not the good gifts of this life. As always, teach me to trust you when I don't fully understand. Amen.