FRUIT

There was a pear tree that stood in the clearing. Half-way around the clump of trees directly behind our house. It was out of the line of sight from our house. We found it quite by accident. Dad was on his way, I think, to go hunting along a creek bed north of our house and discovered it. It was a beautiful thing to Mom and Dad because it was kind of an unexpected treat. They had both grown up raising fruits and vegetables so they knew what to do with pears. We had pear honey, pear cake, pear preserves. What we didn't eat right then, Mom canned and we ate periodically throughout the year.

Spiritual fruit is kind of like that tree. Quiet, solitary---off the beaten path. Our lives seem that way at times---until someone stumbles onto us. And if our lives have been spent grooming the fruit and developing this pleasant taste, people will stop by and be intrigued, first of all, to discover such a gem unexpectedly. When all the world gives them is selfishness, bitterness and turmoil, it is refreshing to encounter someone still giving love, joy and peace. Secondly, someone with such a bitter taste in their mouth from dealing with people can not help but immediately notice the sweetness of your life. But sweet on the lips is no good if it is bitter in the belly. Be genuine. Discover a vulnerability between you and God so that you will have no trouble being real with people.

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control---these nine qualities align to provide a sweet life. They are attributes that will turn away argument and anger. They will soften the hardest and warm the coldest. They will be the most welcome of companions when your life encounters the hardships that are bound to visit everyone. They are solid footing in this crazy whirling world around us. So stand solid in the quiet places. Draw deeply from the life-giving source which is Christ. Develop His character. Show His nature. Someone has just entered the clearing.