ROOTED IN THE RIGHT SOIL

The apricot is a national symbol of Armenia. Our songs, our poems, even our dreams—they all draw inspiration from this golden fruit. In fact, the Latin name for the apricot is Prunus Armeniacus, meaning “Armenian fruit,” because it’s believed to have originated in the rich soil of Armenia.

But not everyone sees the apricot the way we do. In some places, it’s just another fruit. Maybe not even one they would pick first. Why? Because the apricots they’ve tasted weren’t grown in the sunlight of Armenia, weren’t nurtured in its rich soil. They don’t know the sweetness, the richness, the essence of the apricot that comes from being in the right environment.

In many ways, our spiritual lives are like that apricot. Psalm 92:13 reminds us, “Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God.” It’s not just about being planted—it’s about being planted in the right place.

When we root ourselves in God’s presence, when we attend Badarak on Sundays, when we receive the Holy Communion, when we dive into His Word, we are being nourished by the best soil. We’re strengthened by His promises, surrounded by His love, and connected to a community of faith. That’s the environment where we grow, where we flourish, where we bear fruit that’s sweet, vibrant, and full of life.

But what happens when we’re planted in the wrong soil? When we root ourselves in fear, negativity, or distractions, we become like that apricot grown in poor conditions—lacking flavor, missing the essence. We feel spiritually dry, unfulfilled, and far from the blessings God has promised.

Friends, take a moment and reflect: where are you rooted? Are you rooted in God’s presence, drawing strength from His Spirit? Or are you trying to grow in an environment that doesn’t support your spiritual health? If you’re feeling dry or disconnected, it’s time to make a change. It’s never too late to replant yourself. Through repentance, prayer, and worship, we can find our way back to the soil where we belong.

So, let’s dig deep into the rich soil of God’s love. Let’s soak up the sunlight of His grace. Let’s allow His Spirit to nourish us so we can become like that Armenian apricot—delicious, vibrant, and a testimony to His goodness.

Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan
January 23, 2025