Known by Our Fruit

“Each tree is known by its own fruit. Figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good person out of the good treasure of the heart produces good.” Luke 6:44-45

Trees are known by their fruit. So Jesus reminds us in today’s passage from the Daily Texts. What kind of fruit are you producing?

I went to bed last night heavy hearted following the inexplicable but oh-so-predictable announcement that none of the officers responsible for the killing of Breonna Taylor would face charges for her death (one officer was charged with wanton endangerment; wall lives matter?). We are dealing with a sickness in the roots of the tree of our nation and this is the fruit that continues to grow.

Today I wake to the reminder that I have been grafted into the Tree of Life through Jesus Christ. From the tree that is his cross, we find ourselves for the first time forgiven and free to bear good fruit. Today, Jesus reminds me that I have the capacity to bear fruit for the sake of change. To lead a life of righteousness even as the world seems to fall apart. To will and work for life and love in a world that continues to value racism and death.

Today, let us bear good fruit. The world is in need of the healing that flows from the Tree of Life.

Breonna Taylor. Say her name. Black lives matter.

Be well, friends. You are loved.

God of life, you have overcome death through the victory of the cross. In memory of those who have died senselessly, let us work for life. Bring healing to those wounded last night, and hope to our broken world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Image: A tree with red apples in Sweden, W. Carter, 2018 (public domain).