Summer, the Christian's Gathering-Time
James Logan, M.A. Proverbs 10:5 He that gathers in summer is a wise son: but he that sleeps in harvest is a son that causes shame. I. THE PERSON SPOKEN OF. "A wise son." II. THE SEASON IN WHICH THE WISE SON EXERTS HIMSELF. "In summer." And why is the gospel dispensation represented by summer? 1. Winter is over and gone. His reign was tyrannical and cold. But now summer returns. So the gospel dispensation reveals to us the bright extended beams of the Sun of Righteousness. 2. In winter the face of nature is squalid and deformed. But summer comes; and, by a touch surpassing magic, beauties on beauties start into view. So the gospel dispensation mollifies the hard heart, removes the deformity of sin from the soul, adorns the temper and the conversation with all the beauties of holiness. 3. In winter the heavens distil no kindly influence; all is adverse to vegetation. But when summer returns the air breathes balm, the clouds drop fatness, and the earth is fertilised. So the gospel brings along with it refreshing clouds of spiritual influences. 4. In winter no flowers adorn the earth; their beautiful tints, their savoury smell and delicate forms sleep in the earth; but in summer these appear in rich profusion and of variegated colours. In like manner the gospel dispensation is attended with a rich profusion of gracious young converts, whose souls are endowed with knowledge, faith, and affection, and breathe forth a precious perfume, as the Holy Spirit breathes on them. 5. In winter we search the orchard and garden in vain for fruit. But when summer returns we mark with grateful pleasure the pleasant contrast, and gather the mellow fruits of various hues and flavours. In like manner the gospel dispensation is attended with a variety of fruits to the praise of God the Father. III. I would now direct your attention to THE EXERCISE IN WHICH THE WISE SON IS ENGAGED. "He gathereth in summer," or during the gospel dispensation. 1. He gathereth a knowledge of God and of his duty to Him, as these are revealed in God's Word and the dispensations of His grace. 2. He gathereth holy tempers, which cause him to resemble his heavenly Father in watchfulness, patience, meekness, and forbearance. 3. He gathereth an experimental knowledge of God's providence. These are heavenly fruits; they will not corrupt, nor can they be pilfered; they will last for ever, and the happy soul will relish them through the endless ages of eternity.In conclusion, see from this subject — 1. The character of one who believes and practises the true religion: he is a "wise son." 2. The excellency of the gospel dispensation. It is a season which affords every means and opportunity to promote the peace and comfort of the soul. 3. The duty and responsibility of the young. (James Logan, M.A.) Parallel Verses KJV: He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame. WEB: He who gathers in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during the harvest is a son who causes shame.