Go and bear fruit that will remain. John 15:16
Berries, grapes, bananas, apples, oranges, and more. We expect to find these
in the produce section of any grocery store. What we don't always remember are
the people who planted, fertilized, picked, and packed this fruit along the
way. The fruit we enjoy is the result of their labor.
Something similar is true of spiritual fruit: it's the result of labor. But
when it comes to growing this kind of fruit, the Holy Spirit does the lion's
share of the work. He is intimately involved in pruning, fertilizing and
helping this fruit to grow.
So what are the different kinds of fruit that the Spirit will bear in us?
There's the fruit listed by St. Paul: "love, joy, peace, paitence, kindness,
generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control" Galations 5:22-23
There's the fruit of evangelization, as we share God's love with the people
around us. There's the fruit of godly relationships, where we learn to love
one another as Jesus commands us. And there is so much more-all valuable fruit
that makes the kingdom of God present in and around us.
Perhaps today you can focus on the fruit of peace. Reflect for a moment about
how the Holy Spirit knows every concern on your heart. Let that truth bring
you a greater sense of peace. Maybe the Spirit is asking you to let go of some
worry and to trust that He is there for you. Or maybe He is asking you to find
a little extra time today to be with Him.
Holy Spirit, help me to bear fruit that remains. Amen
