Throughout the gospels Jesus tells multiple parables about trees and the fruit they bear. How good trees can only produce good fruit, and likewise only bad trees grow bad fruit. Jesus said to His disciples, “For each tree is known by its own fruit” (Luke 6:44). Basically Jesus is saying, if you truly are my disciples, there is going to be outward signs (fruit) that shows what is on the inside – Christ. So our question is: do our lives display the fruit of a relationship with Christ? When people look at us do they see the good fruit that shows we have made a decision to be Christ followers? When looking at our lives do others want what we have?

The bible tells us that our light should shine so bright that when others see it they will glorify our heavenly Father (Matt 5:16). That others should see the goodness: the changed heart, the love for others, and the servitude (fruit) that it will make them want to have a relationship with Jesus. God’s desire and plan for our lives is that we have the fruit in our lives of a good tree. That the way we live our lives will make others stop and notice that there is something different about us. That serving Jesus isn’t just about saying all the right things, but that there is a truth and life changing power in being a disciple of Christ. Our fruit should attract and draw others to God. When people come to our “store”, they should get excited about what’s inside and want it for themselves. Our lives need to show others Jesus.

So our challenge is to go out into the world and be a light in the darkness. A voice crying out in the wilderness. Let’s show the world how awesome it is to serve our God. People should never look at our lives and see nothing, but they should see our fruit planted in Christ and in turn, glorify our Father in Heaven.

Shalom!

Brent

Please check back regularly for new blogs, comments, and updates to the calendar. Also note that you can sign up for email notifications when new blogs are posted by subscribing with your email address in the subscription link located on the right hand side of the page. September is going to be an amazing month as we have lessons being taught by our own Blake McDaniel, the multi-talented Curt Coffield, and myself. In October we start a new small group series entitled “Life Rules” written by Andy Stanley. We will have multiple small groups meeting all over Grand Rapids during the week and then coming together on Thursday nights to discuss the weekly topics. So come on out to Access, grab a cup of coffee or Oreo shake, make some new friendships, and most importantly – be filled with God’s Word. See you on Thursday.

Shalom!

Brent