When I was a kid, I was not a reader. Only the encouragement (or bribery) of free pizza from Pizza Hut (“Book It”!) really worked. However, some of the books I did enjoy were the “Hardy Boys” mystery series. In these books, the brothers would have to solve a case of an unknown problem or crime. They would collect clues and information in order to solve the mystery correctly. During their investigation and questioning, they would make hypotheses (an educated explanation or supposition) about the mystery. Typically, as they searched and learned more, these initial answers changed. Then at a climactic moment, a final piece of information was found which provided understanding to the full story and allowed the mystery to be solved accurately. The end of the story brought satisfaction to the characters (and readers!), knowing that the truth was known to all.
The reality is that we are all in a mystery, so to speak. We have all given our own ‘hypotheses’ as well; however, is there a clear answer or truth to this mystery? The “Who? What? Where? When? Why? And How?” I am referring is the mystery of life. Since the beginning of time, this mystery has been investigated with theology, philosophy, and sciences. We can find answers everywhere, from universities to churches to shopping malls; different answers are given, and often, with strong conviction. So, can we really find the correct answer to the mystery of life?
“I want their hearts to be encouraged…that they have all the riches of assured understanding and have the knowledge of God’s mystery: Christ. All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Him” (Col 2:2-3, HCSB).
“God wanted to make known…the glorious wealth of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col 1:27, HCSB).
How do we give meaning and purpose to our lives?
How can we make sense of unjust suffering and trials?
How can humanity change and overcome selfishness and evil?
How do we understand morals and justice, good and evil?
How is humanity able to cope with death?
Take some time to answer these questions with your ‘hypothesis’, whether it’s one of atheism or humanism or another religion. I have come to know that, as the above verses reveal, the true path to understanding the mystery of life is found in Jesus Christ. He gives an invitation to all, “Come and see” (John 1:39, NIV). In Him, find the meaning and purpose in life, the rest from continuous struggling, the hope in a future, and the peace that never ends.
“I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance” (John 10:10, HCSB).
