The Fallen Fruit
When John wrote the first two verses of Revelation 22, he may not have known that 2,000 years later those two verses would help to revitalize, not one, but two churches in southern Ohio. Many sermons were preached about the Tree of Life, the Healing of Nations, the Branches, the River of Life, the Pure Water, and the Fruit that grew on the tree. However, this article will talk about the fruit that fell from the Tree of Life into the River of Life.
The fruit of the Tree of Life represents the souls of true believers, providing sustenance to those who are hungry and in need. However, there are also those fruits that remain unripe on the branches or fall into the river below; these are the souls of those who have gone astray, leaving their faith behind.
The River of Life is an ever-present reminder to those who have left the Tree of Life. Though it carries them away from its protective embrace, this same river still offers shelter and security in times of trouble. It provides a safe haven for them amidst the chaotic current that can often seem overwhelming. Even when they turn their back on God, the River of Life will always be there, ready to welcome them back home with open arms. It stands as a testament to His never-ending love and mercy. He never gives up on us, no matter how far we stray, or how desperate our circumstances may become. The River of Life is proof that God's forgiving love will always find a way even through the most difficult times.
When our brothers and sisters come back to church, it is a beautiful sight, like a river releasing its bounty of fruit onto the shore. Inside each one of them lies a seed of faith, hope, and love that can now find fertile ground to take root in. We must nurture this seed, so that it may grow strong and bring forth new fruits for us all. May God guide us on our journeys as we seek to be faithful stewards of His divine grace.
We must take care of the fruit on the Tree of Life, for it is our duty as Christians to tend to those souls that have not yet ripened. We must show them mercy and grace. Let us be a light in times of darkness, let us be a beacon of hope in times of despair. Let us remind ourselves that these are God's children, they are our brothers and sisters in Christ, and we must never forget this responsibility.