One of the recent issues of Outside magazine was titled "The Meaning of Life."  Though it seems a grandiose title, its sentiments certainly fit the life perspectives of most of those who read it.  After all, the editors argue, as long as we are here, here in this magnificent world, why should we not maximize our enjoyment of it?  Why should we not pursue everything this existence has to offer?

    Fair enough.  Even Ecclesiastes says, in chapter nine, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might."  Yet Ecclesiastes also reminds in its final chapter that, "Whatever else you do, remember God."  I love adventure as much as anyone.  I've devoted a good deal of my life to pursuing it.  Nearly fifty years living on the other side of faith, however, has made me put adventure in a much different light.  

    Adventure and a zest for life are like candles.  They burn brightly and wonderfully, but eventually they go the way of all candles:  they burn out.    Remembering God is like a candle, too.  It burns brightly and wonderfully, illuminating and framing all we do. 

    Unlike adventure, however, God's candle will always be there for us to remember.