When John said, “Produce fruit in keeping with repentance,” (John 3:8) the people responded by asking a very basic question:

“What should we do then?” the crowd asked.  John answered, “Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same.” Even tax collectors came to be baptized. “Teacher,” they asked, “what should we do?” “Don’t collect any more than you are required to,” he told them.  Then some soldiers asked him, “And what should we do?” He replied, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay.” (Luke 3:10-14)

     We could sum this up by saying that the “proofs” of repentance consist of (1) generosity toward others, (2) a lack of attachment to material things, (3) honesty and integrity, (4) and contentment. 

     Those are some very solid guidelines to live by, and when we strive to follow them, we are certainly on the right track, giving honor and glory to the King of all kings, Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray that my heart will always be in the right place.  As people who follow you, we want to set the right example for others, telling them not just through our words, but through our actions of what genuine faith consists of.  In Jesus’ name, Amen.