KNOWN BY YOUR FRUIT
1 Corinthians 10:14-22; Psalm 116; Luke 6:43-49
Jesus tells us today that “each tree is known by its own fruit.” We cannot hide who we really are for long, because our actions will always reveal the state of our hearts. It is possible to claim faith with our lips while our lives tell a different story.
God is not deceived by appearances. He looks at the fruit love in our homes, honesty in our work, peace in our relationships. The question for us is simple: what kind of fruit are people tasting when they encounter me? Am I drawing others closer to God, or pushing them away?
St. Paul echoes this in the second reading when he warns, “You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too.” We cannot live with divided loyalty and expect to bear good fruit. Today’s “idols” may not be carved wood, but they are still there greed, pride, dishonesty, and the desire to please everyone. To bear good fruit we must choose one table. That means staying connected to Christ through prayer, the Eucharist, and daily choices for truth, even when it is difficult.
God is not asking for perfection, only sincerity. A tree does not bear fruit overnight, but it must be planted in good soil. Let us allow God’s Word to take root in us, so that our lives may reflect Him. May our character match our confession.
Prayer
Lord, help us to bear good fruit in thought, word, and deed. Make our lives pleasing to you. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
