The fruit, is the good and right will of the giver.

Excerpt

I have learned of Thee, my God, to distinguish betwixt a gift, and fruit. A gift, is the thing itself which he gives, that imparts these necessaries unto us; as money, meat, drink, clothing, shelter, help: but the fruit, is the good and right will of the giver.

Source Confessions, Book Xiii, §35 · 📖 Read the full passage

✨ To meditate on today

According to Saint Augustine, in all help there is the gift, what is given (money, food, clothing, shelter), and the fruit, the right and sincere will of the heart that gives: it is this fruit that counts in God’s eyes. Today, give something, even something small, taking care of your intention: give with a kind heart, without expecting thanks.

Receive a lesson of this teaching every day by email or Telegram