If you are wise...you will show yourself a reservoir and not a canal. For a canal pours out as fast as it takes in; but a reservoir waits till it is full before it overflows, and so communicates its surplus....We have all too few such reservoirs in the Church at present, though we have canals in plenty...they (canals) desire to pour out when they themselves are not yet inpoured; they are readier to speak than to listen, eager to teach that which they do not know, and most anxious to exercise authority on others, although they have not learnt to rule themselves....Let the reservoir of which we spoke just now take pattern from the spring; for the spring does not form a stream or spread into a lake until it is brimful....Be filled thyself; then, but discreetly, mind, pour out thy fullness....Out of thy fullness help me if thou canst; and if not, spare thyself."
Bernard of Clairveaux (12th century)
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This great quote was in our church bulletin this morning. It seems to me what St. Bernard points out has the ring of truth to it.
Too many times I speak when I should listen.
Too many times I teach when I should learn.
Too many times I rule when I should submit.
Too many times I act when I should wait.
At some level these tendencies are part and parcel of being human. But also, I live in a time when there is little use for virtues like patience, humility, and long-suffering.
Lord, teach me to be a Reservoir of your Life. Amen.
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