Fruit

One of the most used sayings of Jesus was to "bear fruit." This was a metaphor for living your life in a way that would honor God. Examples of "fruit" are love, joy peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness and self control (Galations 5).

But why did Jesus choose "fruit?" Why not flowers? Why not candy? Why not a big juicy steak or a tasty veggie burger (for my wife)? What is so special about fruit?

Let's do a quick review from elementary science class. Fruit is very tasty. Trees make fruit tasty so that animals eat it. Why do they want the animals to eat the fruit? The answer is that inside the fruit is a seed (sometimes seedS). The animals then "transport" the seeds to another location and then more trees grow.

So with our science lesson in mind, Jesus words to "bear fruit" take on a whole new meaning. We are to "bear fruit" so that others can identify us as Christians (Matthew 7:15-20). Our "fruit" is sweet (how sweet is love, joy and kindness!). Our goal is that people will see our fruit, experience our fruit, and in turn desire to accept Jesus and bear fruit themselves.

So, bear fruit today remembering that in our fruit are the seeds that may grow into new Christians.