A Living Dog is Better than a Dead Lion

Scripture

Ecc. 9:4 But whoever is joined with all the living has hope, for a living dog is better than a dead lion.

Observation

As long as we are alive we have the hope of knowing Christ and his salvation. Therefore the hope for the vilest of persons is great. The “dog” that is alive has the hope of salvation, while the noble “lion,” who may have enjoyed a life of personal righteousness, power and wealth has nothing if they are dead. Once dead, no matter who you are, there is no hope.

Application

This takes us away from perspectives which may be embraced by the world, or even by Christians. We tend to reflect upon and respect those whom we view as being “noble.” The Lion, throughout life, receives an amount of healthy fear and respect from those whom he encounters. He is considered great and worthy of our honor.

In comparison to the lion we have the stray dog. We find them in numerous places, wandering the streets, sleeping under buses, hiding under a rock and always scavenging for something to eat. This seems like a terrible life and we know people who are living in this way. They’ve made bad decisions and choices in life which have landed them in the worst of circumstances.

If we had to choose we’d go and hang out with the lion and forget the dog. But when the lion dies, no matter what they’ve done in life, if they don’t know Christ, they must suffer the consequences. The “dog” who remains alive has hope.

As long as we are alive we have the hope of Christ. No matter who we are or what we’ve done, we have the hope of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Whether a dog or a lion, as long as we draw breath we can turn to Christ. We are given the opportunity of being joined with all the living for eternity. God incarnate — in Christ — is the hope for all humankind. No matter who we are, we need to respond while we have the time.

Prayer

Lord, may every day be filled with you. Amen.