The Teacher of Ecclesiastes was the most successful king in Israel’s history. In addition, he was wise beyond his years and his writings are studied even today. He had a storied career. Still as he reflected on it all his conclusion was that it was meaningless. The Teacher challenges us to take a long view of our work. By showing us the emptiness of work and play in this world he is pressing us to look for a better way. God dramatically cuts through the cynicism, weariness, burnout, frustration, and the sheer emptiness that characterizes our work in this world by taking the question of meaning, self-worth, accomplishment, and profit off the table.