The Democratic Convention was over. All the delegates had gone home. But in an obscure storage area at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History the moments were being preserved. Two Smithsonian historians had mingled among the Madison Square Garden crowd, scavenging memorabilia that will evoke the spirit of the convention for many years: Mylar confetti, souvenirs, banners, handmade signs, memories.

Those who work to preserve the spirit of the past are involved in a godlike activity. They remind us that everything is significant. Everything!

But we often forget that. Aging bodies, changing circumstances, and all kinds of losses make us wonder if anything really matters. What's the point if we lose it all in the end?

Solomon wondered about that too. For a while he thought everything was destined to become useless and forgotten. But when he came to his senses and remembered his Creator, he saw that everything is significant, either for good or for evil. God will judge every deed and motive (Eccl. 12:14).

Solomon concluded, "Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man" (v.13 KJV). The only way to find fulfillment is by obeying God.  — Mart De Haan