The answer is: Shame

Proverbs 10:5

Proverbs 10:5 offers a vivid image reminiscent of our modern concepts of work ethic and personal responsibility. The wise son, busy gathering the summer harvest, captures the essence of diligent preparation. After all, if you think about it, summer is the season of plenty, a time when crops are ripe and ready to be collected. It’s that perfect moment when effort pays off, and the focus on gathering serves as a brilliant metaphor for life’s opportunities!

On the contrary, the “son that sleepeth in harvest” reflects a compelling truth about procrastination and missed chances. Imagine if a farmer were to leave his fields unattended when crops are ready! Why would anyone choose to ignore the work of a season that could set them up for success? This wasted effort brings about “shame” not just for the individual but often for the family or community relying on that harvest, echoing the lessons of cooperation and mutual support that pepper many religions and cultural systems.

Interestingly, this principle extends into other biblical texts. Jesus’ parables often touch upon harvesting, particularly in the context of spiritual fruits (think of the parable of the sower in Matthew 13). It serves as a reminder, once again, that what we do in the present influences our own future outcomes, along with those who walk this path with us. Harvest wisdom stretches across seasons—both literally and metaphorically—providing an opportunity for deeper reflection on how preparation meets outcome in our daily choices.