Daily Reading: 29 August

(from www.christianaid.org.uk)

Lasting Fruit.

Something to read

‘You did not choose me but I chose you, And I appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last… I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another.’

- John 15:16-17.

Something to think about

The imagery of fruit is powerful in the late summer – we are surrounded by fruit of summer gardens and fields. There is abundance, but also a keen sense that fruit can easily perish, like our good intentions. 

Lasting fruit is rooted in our relationship with God, and leads us to express our love for one another.

John records the commandment of Jesus to his disciples “to love one another as I have loved you”, and makes clear that in approaching his own death he is passing on instructions to his friends, who will remain after he's gone.

Something to do

Gather a bowl of fruit today – something freshly picked, if you can get hold of that.

While enjoying the smell and taste, consider where and how you might bring lasting refreshment to those around you.

Something to pray

I come into your presence, loving God
Recognising that in your depths
My roots are held firm.
I ask that the fruits of my being,
Be used to nourish loving connections
With the people I meet today.
Amen.

Today’s contributor: David Pain is the former Director of Christian Aid’s Supporter and Community Partnerships Department.