30 As for me, I thought of myself as an irrigation canal bringing water from a river into a garden. 31 I only intended to water my orchard and flower beds, but the canal soon became a river, and the river became a sea. 32 And so I present you with my learning; I hold it high, so that its light can be seen everywhere, like that of the rising sun. 33 Like an inspired prophet, I pour out my teachings, so that future generations can benefit from them. 34 Please realize that I have not done all this hard work for myself alone, but to help anyone who wants to be wise.
The poetic imagery that Yeshua ben Sira, the author of The Book of Sirach conveys to his readers, is one of a flowing brook sustaining a garden filled with plenty. The symbolism of The Constant Gardener reveals a willingness to assist all who choose to hear, and listen to the advice that streams into ones conscious awareness.
Here there is an enlightening paradox that, far from being satiated, those who partake of Divine Wisdom will always thirst for more.
Per Proverbs 8, Divine Wisdom is personified as coming from God, yet distinct from Him. This description is reflected in the Johannine Logos, or Word (John 1:1–14).
Proverbs 8-12:14
“I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence;
I possess knowledge and discretion.
To fear the Lord is to hate evil;
I hate pride and arrogance,
evil behaviour and perverse speech.
Counsel and sound judgment are mine;
I have insight, I have power.
Hearing, and listening are two different realities. Hearing is a passive experience that requires no effort. Listening, on the other hand, is our conscious choice employing our complete attention.
When confronted with an overwhelming trial it is always wise to take time to ponder over the pros, and cons leading us to a rational strategy that will resolve our misfortune...whilst facing another stream of thought, providing us ever so subtly with another option challenging our earlier ideas.
It takes time, and experience to come to terms with this alternative source of wisdom, inviting us to participate in His journey through our life.
Peacefulness, and harmony reign in the life of the person who accepts the invitation of Divine Wisdom to let Him provide us with the remedies to all of life's challenges, daily teaching us to follow His Way through our life.
Proverbs 8-32:36
“Now then, my children, listen to me;
blessed are those who keep my ways.
33 Listen to my instruction and be wise;
do not disregard it.
34 Blessed are those who listen to me,
watching daily at my doors,
waiting at my doorway.
35 For those who find me find life
and receive favor from the Lord.
36 But those who fail to find me harm themselves;
all who hate me love death.”
end
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