Contemplative Bible Reading

Matthew 3:8 (New International Version)

Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.

Here is another one of those verses that asks us to do two different and sometimes contradictory things.

The first phrase is produce fruit – an action. The second phrase is the word repentance – which means to change your mind. Change your heart and mind and do something physical.

The Christian life is not all action. Neither is it all heart, mind, or attitude. God wants both from us. He wants our hearts to turn towards Him. He also wants us to live – to do – a life that shows where our heart is.