What happens to a Tree that wilts and dies? It can no longer bear good Fruit right? What do we do with this tree as it sits and starts to die? Do we cut it down, use it for wood, or allow it to exist, decay, decompose and start anew from it's seeds? If we are to lose our way, as a fallen and wilted tree, how do we want those around us to react? How should God act? We don't want to be forgotten, or for or family to give up on us. We want to find a way to move into the fullness of life, to recover love and the ability to hope again. We want to decompose and be recreated anew, like a Phoenix, who dies and is reborn again from the ashes. How do we rise above the everyday life and show ourselves as unique, special children of God?
Today's Gospel states:'"Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thorns, or figs from thistles? So, every sound tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears evil fruit. A sound tree cannot bear evil fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will know them by their fruits' (Matthew 7:15-20).
We often hear of false prophets, those saying they know what is best, what God wants for us, but how do we know what is true? We believe in second chances for people, that everyone makes mistakes and deserves to be reconciled. The song 'Every Rose has its Thorn' comes to mind. There is beauty in every person, even if there is a thorn coming from a small part, the beauty outshines it. We can be people who bear much fruit, sharing the Gospel with the world, living in the hope and love of God. Try to take some time to reflect today on how you can be a person of faith who bears fruit for the world.
Today's prayer comes from 'Knowing Jesus' a prayer for bearing fruit:
Loving Lord and heavenly Father – thank You that I am Your child.. and Father I pray that my life may become so saturated with Christ Jesus, that the fruit of the Spirit may grow and develop in my life - to Your praise and glory. Father, however I am treated by other people – I pray that Your love may shine forth in me. Whatever happens in my life – I ask that Your peace and joy would abide within. No matter what difficulties I may encounter in life, teach me to be patient and kind in all my dealings with others and manifest the goodness and grace in me that only comes from You. Lord.. However hard times may become I pray that I may be gentle and self-controlled in my actions and attitudes and Father that I may be a good and faithful servant … but Lord I thank You that no matter what happens - even when I step away from You…You remain faithful… Lord I know that I cannot develop the fruit of Your Holy Spirit through my own effort or will – but only as I rest in Christ. Help me to abide in You I pray…. Amen
