As we start the new year, many of us reflect on the past and naturally make plans for the future. It’s for sure a season of resolutions and fresh starts. Reading in Matthew 3:8, John the Baptist gives us a piece of timeless wisdom that can always guide us. It guides us not just at the start of the year but every single day: “Bear fruit in keeping with repentance.” Repentance isn’t just about feeling bad or saying sorry. It’s also about a life transformed by God’s grace.
The idea of “bearing fruit” is indeed a powerful one. Fruit isn’t something a tree forces out in a single moment. On the contrary, it grows naturally when the tree is healthy and rooted. In the same way, when we truly repent—when we turn away from sin and align ourselves with God’s will—our lives indeed begin to reflect that change. John’s message reminds us that repentance without action is incomplete. James writes about that in James 2:17.
I once had a friend who decided to get serious about their health. They didn’t just talk about exercising. That is to say, they joined a gym, changed their diet, and started measuring what would achieve their results. Over time, the results became evident —both in how they looked and felt. True repentance works the same way. It’s not just a spiritual moment. It’s also a lifelong commitment to change. It’s undoubtedly a change others can see.
Reflect On Your Life
This week, take a moment to reflect on your life. Are there areas where you’ve possibly repented in words only? Admittedly, you haven’t really taken any action that would lead to bearing fruit? Maybe it’s a relationship where forgiveness hasn’t fully taken root or a habit that needs breaking? Ask God to help you identify those areas and take practical steps toward change.
Remember, bearing fruit isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Always stay rooted in God’s Word. Additionally, surround yourself with a community that encourages growth, and let the Holy Spirit guide you. Over time, you’ll see the evidence of God’s work in your life (and so will others).
Our prayer for the week: “Lord, thank You for Your patience and grace. Help us identify the areas of sin in our lives and bear fruit that reflects the work You’re doing in our hearts. Show us the areas in our lives that need transformation, and give us the courage to follow You fully. May our lives point others to Your love and power. Amen.”
Let’s commit to walking this journey together, Church family. True repentance is not a one-time event. Instead, it’s a beautiful process of growing more like Christ every day.
Growing in Christ,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor