Cultivating a Harvest of Understanding
Where no oxen are, the manger is clean, But much revenue comes by the strength of the ox. Proverbs 14:4
In the agricultural wisdom of Proverbs 14:4, we find a profound lesson about the messiness of productivity. The imagery of a clean manger without oxen starkly contrasts with the fruitful abundance brought about by the strength and toil of these powerful animals. Applying this metaphor to our lives as Christians in a post-modern society reveals a compelling truth about engaging with the world around us.
In our daily walk, we are called to be Christ’s representatives, living out our faith in ways that go beyond the neat and tidy confines of our comfort zones. The manger, representing our lives, might seem more manageable when free from the messiness of interaction with those who hold different beliefs or interpretations. However, Proverbs reminds us that true revenue, a different kind of harvest, comes through the strength and diversity of our interactions.
As Christians, we are the spiritual oxen in the fields of a post-modern society. Our strength lies not in isolation but in our willingness to engage with the world around us. The messiness that comes with interacting with non-believers, those with differing interpretations of the Bible, and even those we may find challenging to love, is the very soil in which a bountiful harvest can be cultivated. The oxen, with their strength and labor, till the ground and prepare it for growth. Similarly, our interactions with others till the soil of hearts and minds, creating fertile ground for the seeds of God’s Word to be planted. It is through these messy, challenging, and sometimes uncomfortable interactions that the abundance of God’s love and truth can flourish.
While a clean manger might seem appealing for its simplicity, it pales in comparison to the richness that comes from engaging with the diverse perspectives present in our post-modern world. Just as oxen are essential for a fruitful harvest, our engagement with others is vital for a spiritual harvest that extends beyond the boundaries of our faith community. In the messiness of dialogue, relationships, and understanding, we witness a different kind of revenue — an increase in openness to discussions about Christianity. Our actions become a living testimony, inviting others to inquire about the source of our strength and the hope that sustains us.
As we navigate the fields of post-modern society, let us embrace the role of spiritual oxen, recognizing that the messiness of engagement is a sign of a vibrant and thriving faith. May our lives, like well-tended fields, produce a harvest that brings glory to God and transforms the hearts of those who encounter the strength of Christ in us.