Implications: Responsibility (2) Observe like Solomon
When we talk about our responsibility towards creation - we find a great example in King Solomon. We all know the story of how Solomon asked God for wisdom instead of wealth and how God blessed him with great wisdom.I'm fascinated by the idea that Solomon's wisdom was showcased by his interest in creation. We're told that his interests ranged from the great Cedar trees of the region to stubborn hyssop plant that could grow from little shoots in the walls. While Genesis differentiates between animals of the land, air and sea, Solomon recognised another classification - that of reptiles.
Can you imagine if more of our world leaders observed creation avidly and were able to share something of what they had seen and learned with others? I think we'd live in a better and wiser world.
In the Proverbs, which are attributed to Solomon, there are lovely examples of the lessons that can be learned from the ways of the ant, the eagle and other animals.
The teachings of Jesus also reflected the wisdom that is observed and learned in and from creation. He urges us to learn from the birds of the air, the plants of the field, and the way of the seed.
Long before we tackle pollution and global warming, we need to start by observing and contemplating creation as a gift, a wonder and a privilege.The astounding variety, beauty and vitality of creation is there for us to see, appreciate, describe and share.
When we do this, we are on the path of wisdom.
| God gave Solomon wisdom and very great insight, and a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore. 30 Solomon's wisdom was greater than the wisdom of all the men of the East, and greater than all the wisdom of Egypt... 32 He spoke three thousand proverbs and his songs numbered a thousand and five. 33 He described plant life, from the cedar of Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of walls. He also taught about animals and birds, reptiles and fish. (1Kings4:29-33) |
