Every tree is known by its own fruit

Every tree is known by its own fruit. 

“Tell me who your friends are, and I’ll tell you who you are.”   This old adage has much gospel truth within it.   In fact, today’s reading about fruit trees says something very similar.   How and where you are rooted show the way you will grow and determine the kind and quality of fruit you will bear.   We get a certain degree of support and nourishment from our friends and associates and thus reflect their influence.   Where you turn for help with your decisions says something about your approach to life.

We can apply this principle to family life as well.   More than anyone else, parents are the most influential source of development for their children.   The home that they build is the “soil” where their children will take root—the soil that will have the most significant impact on the kind of fruit they will bear.

It stands to reason, then, that parents who are rooted in Christ will bear the fruit of children who are secure in who they are and who are open to the Lord.   So the question is “What kind of soil am I providing for my children?”

The answer doesn’t have to be grandiose.   Sometimes, the smallest things make the biggest impact.   Let your children see you praying.   Speak to them occasionally about your relationship with the Lord.   Through your actions, show them how forgiveness is the path to wholeness and peace in everyday life.   Even something as minor as saying, “I forgive you” instead of “That’s okay” can have a great impact.

Remember, the goal is that your children find their security and nourishment in the Lord.   That happens as you provide the right kind of environment.   When their world expands beyond the family, your children will look for sources that will continue to nourish the growth you started.   They may try some other paths, but they will always know what is truly capable of producing the security and peace they long for.   Be assured, your efforts at forming and evangelizing your children will be with them wherever they go.

word among us