Date: April 1, 2024

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, power, and dominion forever and ever, and to the Holy Ghost, who still abides in us. The key phrase for April is “Is Your Life and Walk Bearing Fruit?”

When John the Baptist proclaimed, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near” (Matthew 3:2), he also said, “Produce fruit” (Matthew 3:8). The message is about bearing fruit in our lives and walking as believers in Christ. When we repent and turn to God, we must produce fruit that reflects this change. This fruit comes from being close to God and having an intimate connection with Him. We can only bear fruit if we abide in Christ and allow Him to work through us. We must repent and abide in Christ; while God provides everything, we must be fruitful. 

Jesus said, “…He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing” (John 15:5). The fruit we bear can be seen in our character, which is the fruit of the Spirit, and in our actions, which can lead others to Christ. Ultimately, our fruit should reflect Christlikeness as we become more and more like Him. We are called to live a life that bears fruit for God, not for our selfish desires.  I encourage you to examine your lives and determine whether your motives are centered on Christ or self. We have the privilege of living a life that reflects Jesus in us, which means experiencing His love and joy and bearing good fruit.

In conclusion, fruit is a metaphor for a successful and productive life. We aim to bear fruit that will last and endure beyond our lives. There is no greater purpose in life than to help others choose their eternal destiny, which is the fruit that will outlast our lives. Regardless of our profession, whether we are teachers, accountants, or janitors, our most significant calling is to bear the fruit that God has given us to ensure that others will join us in heaven. As Christians, we must exhibit Christlike character and actions that bear fruit and yield lasting results when sent out into the world, as stated in John 15:16.  Hence, ask yourself, are your life and actions producing fruit? Are your motives Christ-centered? 

Remember, “…With God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).

In His Service,

Bishop Dr. Calvin Worthem

General Chief Overseer/Senior Bishop