In his book “The Old Man and the Sea”... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

As he came from his mother’s womb, naked shall he return, to go as he came; and he shall take nothing from his labour which he may carry away in his hand.
Ecclesiastes 5:15

In his book “The Old Man and the Sea”, writer Ernest Hemingway tells the story of Santiago, a poor fisherman hoping for the catch of his life. For days, however, he is plagued by bad luck and returns home empty-handed. Today, however, is supposed to be his lucky day. Santiago rows further out than usual and casts his lines. Indeed, a gigantic marlin bites! This catch would secure his future. Hope arises.

A days-long struggle ensues until Santiago finally kills the fish with a harpoon. Exhausted and injured, he sets course for his homeland with his giant catch in tow. However, sharks appear and attack the prey. With his last strength, the fisherman defends himself, but the sharks devour the swordfish to the bones. When he finally reaches the harbour, all he has is a large skeleton on the line: his buried hopes!

Like this disappointed fisherman, everyone trying to navigate life without God stands in old age without hope. But it doesn’t have to end so hopelessly. The Lord Jesus Christ is still ready today to give genuine meaning to a messed-up life. To anyone who comes to Him, confessing their sins, He forgives. Moreover, He gives them a new life with a new object and a new purpose.

Today’s reading: Jeremiah 31:27-40 · Romans 5:17-21