Growing Shade

This last weekend, I gave the homily at my daughter's –and now son-in-law’s– wedding, where I used the analogy of a tree for marriage. This same picture speaks powerfully about our individual lives too.

Scripture often describes spiritual growth as fruit, not as an achievement. In Galatians, Paul writes of “the fruit of the Spirit”: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Fruit is a great analogy, it grows slowly. It grows quietly and naturally, it is what is expected. But it only grows well when a tree is healthy and deeply rooted.

A flourishing Christian life is not built on appearances or occasional grand gestures. It is formed by being rooted in Christ. He is the soil, the source, the sustainer. From there, the daily work begins, the choices we make, the habits we cultivate, the way we speak, forgive, listen, serve and remain faithful when life feels hard.

The Spirit grows the fruit, but we are still called to tend the tree.

And fruit is never just for the tree itself. A tree offers nourishment, shelter and shade for others. In the same way, a life shaped by Christ becomes a place where others can encounter grace, peace and rest.

So, perhaps the deeper question is not simply “How am I growing?” but rather, “What kind of shelter is my life becoming for others?"

Who is finding shade beneath the tree God is growing in me?

Colleen