...for the tree

is known by its fruit.

       Matthew 12. 33

(The fruit our lives bear

reveals who we are

and Whose we are

and what others witness

through our relationship

          with Christ.

God bears the fruit,

the ripening of which

we may never live

long enough to see.

We have only

  to be faithful to Him.)

O LORD,

Help us to not view

accomplishments

and successes

and recognition

as visible fruit.

But fruit only in what

points others to You,

nourishes

and sustains

and brings You glory:

love, joy, peace,

patience, kindness,

goodness, faithfulness,

gentleness, self-control

(Galatians 5.22)

Bear Your fruit in us,

    O Mighty LORD,

even in this situation

                   today.