In 1949, the Irish writer Samuel Beckett published ‘Waiting for Godot’; Godot is pronounced as Go-doe. In it, a couple of men are eagerly waiting for the arrival of another man called Godot. While waiting they discuss about their lives – their hopes, challenges, and many disappointments. They talked and talked, waited and waited, but Godot never arrives; the novel ends in sad disappointment.
A survey by the British Royal National Theatre revealed that ‘Waiting for Godot’ is one of the most important publications of the 20th century. ‘Waiting for Godot’ promotes the view that life is meaningless – just a series of sad disappointments.
Bible theology and philosophy gives us a different view, clearly seen in the writings of the Biblical prophets like Isaiah. In Chapters 1-39, we see Isaiah asking Judah to change their wicked ways; in Chapters 40-66 we see Isaiah telling Judah that God’s messiah with restorative healing powers, will come rule with kindness and justice.
Hear Isaiah 42:1-3 (NLT): “Look at my servant, whom I strengthen. He is my chosen one, who pleases me. I have put my Spirit upon him. He will bring justice to the nations. He will not shout or raise his voice in public. He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle. He will bring justice to all…”
The Bible teaches that a day is coming when God’s messiah will rule the earth with justice – this is the messianic hope. Thus, life is not meaningless, it is an unavoidable journey to the next world when God brings justice to the nations.
May God help us to understand the messianic hope clearly – may we experience its healing power and strength it provides daily, Amen!
