We are meant to be kind, in the same way that God is kind – even (and especially) when those to whom we are directing kindness do not reciprocate. This kindness may be mistaken for weakness, but it is the very power and presence of God at work in and through us, working to heal our brokenness and grow God’s kingdom. How, then, does God grow kindness in us? The apostle Paul offers us some guidance in his famous passage on the Fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. Paul calls kindness fruit, which is to say that it is grown. It is an organic byproduct of being in community with its source – Jesus Christ, and with his community – the body of Christ.

However, lest we expect a perfectly fruitful and harmonious community, Jesus tempers our expectations. He says that his community is like a field made up of both wheat and weeds, or like a net full of all kinds of fish (i.e., not all good!). In other words, we are in process; both fruitful and unfruitful. Upon reflection, we must confess that each of us is a mixed bag of kindness and unkindness. God is at work in us to produce kindness, yet this work is not yet complete. This season provides us with an opportunity to make room for a deeper connection with the source of kindness – Jesus Christ – and a deeper connection with the community in which he has planted each and all of us. We have been planted here to be nourished to grow and bear his fruit for the benefit of all.

This organic process reminds me of a remarkable feat of bioengineering found in remote parts of India called jing kieng jri, a “living root bridge.” It is reported that these bridges not only survive but thrive for centuries in regions and conditions where modern construction methods fail. Through a slow process, over long stretches of time, tree roots are woven together to form a bridge over deep crevices and bodies of water, eventually providing safe passage for pedestrians and habitation for hundreds of living species. Our community of faith is meant to provide this kind of benefit and habitation for all who encounter it. We may do so as we connect in ever deeper ways with Jesus and one another, bearing the fruit of kindness to all those who cross our path.