They say that art imitates life. It could be as true of architecture imitating the pattern of our lives. We have close-knit terraced housing, then there's semi-detached and ultimately the detached housing that many people aspire to live in. Yet, while homes have never been more comfortable, we spend far less time in them due to work and commitments. Similarly we can live close to God and each other (terraced), or slightly apart from God and neighbour (semi-detached) or totally detached and independently.
At least we learn in life that we need each other. Life humbles in all its situations of trial, ill-health, joy and sorrow. While everyone wants to do great and good things with a fruitful love that is "real and active" (2nd reading) - some end up feeling burned out, exhausted and even despairing. Perhaps their enthusiasm has inbuilt expectation, and the indifference and ingratitude they meet in marriage and work chisels away, leaving them frustrated, angry and tired.
Yet, others who do as much if not more are still full of hope and life. Why? Because they are connected to the source of hope, life, care and love for their neighbours and their world.
Fruit results from an overflow of the life that a plant has taken into itself through sunshine, water and nutrients. It's as if this life cannot contain itself and must blossom forth. Can it be any different for a person whose life "remains in" God. Not living a semi-detached or totally independent life.
(Comments to Tom at stmarysrcathlone@oceanfree.net )