Can a hollow tree grow healthy apples?

Of course not! If a tree is hollow it doesn’t have any of the strength it needs. Plus, it can’t draw water from the ground that is supposed to flow into the branches to help produce fruit.

Well, you’re the tree.

In John 15:16 Jesus says this to his disciples: “I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last…”

Something we need to remember is that, if we identify with the disciples, we can’t bear fruit (a) if we’re disconnected from Jesus (see John 15:5), and (b) if we are unwell.

In this sense, to be unwell is to be hollow. It’s to appear okay on the outside, but devoid of an authentic relationship with Jesus on the inside, and to be too exhausted, spent and cynical to be a blessing to others.

So today’s devotional is a motivator to get well.

Bearing fruit—what I’m calling ‘growing healthy apples’—has to do with sharing things like love, joy, peace, patience and kindness. But ‘healthy apples’ could also be people in your life who depend on you. These are friends, kids, parents, or co-workers.

Be intentional about your relationship with Jesus, and make an effort to be well.

It’s hard for a hollow tree to grow healthy apples.

By Matthew Ruttan