"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you." John 15:16 (ESV)
Do you ever wonder about your legacy? Do you wonder if anything you are doing has deep and abiding meaning? Jesus reminds us we were intentionally chosen to bear fruit that abides and has an eternal purpose beyond ourselves.
In John 15:16, these words are a beacon of light in life's uncertainties. They remind us our journey with Christ isn't accidental but intentional. The Savior of the world handpicked us. It's easy to get caught up in the chaos of our lives and wonder about our purpose. But Jesus assures us we're chosen and appointed for a purpose beyond ourselves.
Imagine the impact of knowing the Creator of the universe has personally chosen you. It's a humbling realization that our lives have significance far beyond what we can comprehend. We were not selected for a fleeting moment but for an eternal purpose – to bear fruit.
"Bearing fruit" isn't just a metaphorical concept. It's about allowing the qualities of Christ – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – to take root in our lives. As we cultivate these virtues, we become channels of God's transformative power. Our actions and words have the potential to touch lives and shape destinies.
What's beautiful about this promise is the fruit we bear isn't meant to wither away. Jesus tells us our fruit should abide. Think about the impact you can leave behind – a legacy of love, kindness, and faith that continues to influence future generations. Just as the ripples from a stone thrown into a pond spread outward, our lives can create a ripple effect of positive change.
But how does this impact stretch through generations? The answer lies in the concept of legacy. When we live out the truths of John 15:16, our actions and character traits become a legacy passed down from generation to generation. Think of it as a spiritual inheritance – the values, beliefs, and examples we set to become a foundation for those who come after us.
Imagine a family where each generation builds upon the legacy of faith and love left by their predecessors. Children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren continue to bear the fruit of the Spirit, guided by the example set by their ancestors. This is how the impact multiplies through the generations.
Our lives become a living testimony of God's grace and power. As we navigate the challenges and joys of life, our choices and attitudes can inspire those around us to seek a deeper relationship with Christ. The love we share, the forgiveness we extend, and the kindness we show can set a powerful example for our children and grandchildren to follow.
So, my friend, take a moment to reflect on your impact. You're chosen and appointed by Jesus to bear fruit that abides – fruit that leaves an imprint on the lives of others and continues to grow, even after you're gone. Your choices today can shape the course of generations to come.
Let's hold onto this truth: our impact goes beyond the here and now. It stretches through time, influencing the lives of our descendants. Embrace the responsibility and privilege of being chosen by Christ, and let your life be a living testament to His transformative power.
Prayer:
Lord, thank you for choosing us to bear lasting fruit and impact generations with your love. May our lives be a testament to your grace as we strive to leave a legacy that reflects your transformative power. In Jesus' name, Amen.