Some times when I am particularly weary, I find it hard to discern the next right thing to do. My longing is just to give up. My dad would talk about it as the old black dog coming down on him. You may know the feeling.
A wise friend reminded me this week that one of the surest ways to discover God’s movement in yourself and in the world is to look out for manifestation of the fruits of the Spirit around you. Not pineapples and kumquats, but love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Sure, Paul cribbed these from Roman philosophers, but they are nonetheless indicators of health and hope. Spiritual wisdom knows no creed.
In the midst of grief, overwork, financial worry, depression, anxiety, it is good to look for the fruits. They are there in subtle ways and in unexpected people and places.
Reverend Lisa Hunt, Rector