Therefore bear fruit in keeping with repentance
John the Baptist said this and he also said “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (verse 2).
The word repentance in the Greek is one I love – “metanoia”. It literally means a change of thinking or change of heart.
There are whole industries in the world today dedicated to change. Making improvements, turning businesses around. Talk-show hosts who offer remedies to change are watched by multiple millions each day. Consultants and coaches consult and coach all manner of people as to how they can change their lives.
Why is change so desired and so important? Because people know if you want things to be different to how they are there is a need for things to change. If we keep doing things the same, we will get the same results.
But if we make changes in our life, positive changes, then the result is growth.
John the Baptiser pointed to this when he spoke of the “fruits of repentance“. The fruits of repentance are realised when the tree of your life is growing through the changes you and the Grace of God make.
Why is this such a big deal? Because the kingdom of God is near and coming nearer and God wants a changed you to be a part of it!
PRAYER: Lord, here I am today. I confess I need you and want you. Change me as you ordain. Amen