I look up to people and to Christian communities who have served the Lord for many long years. But I’ve also realized that the number of years doesn’t automatically convert to the deepening relationship of a Christian. A tree can keep growing but not bear fruit.
I’ve seen a community grow big only to start losing its members after they lost their personal touch with one another. I’ve witnessed servants who became “superstars” and then they started acting like one! I’ve heard of humble and loving members who’ve become intolerant, impatient, critical and judgmental after learning much about the Lord and gaining a lot of experience from service.
The one-million-peso question to ask is: What fruits have you borne in those years of service? Preachers like me live in an aquarium. People watch us. Because at the end of the day, no matter how powerful our preaching is, no matter how talented or knowledgeable we are, and no matter how many long years we’ve been serving, we are measured by the fruits — our families, our relationships, our character. It’s not an easy job! That’s why we need lots of God’s grace. We need the Holy Spirit that we may bear His fruit. (By Alvin Barcelona)
REFLECTION:
As we grow deeper in faith are we also growing deeper in love?
Come, Holy Spirit, grant me the grace to bear Your fruit. In Jesus’ name.Amen.
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