Dying to self produces plentiful harvest
Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honor anyone who serves me. John 12:23-26 From the text, Jesus told His disciples of His impending suffering that will eventually result to His death on the cross. This He told them that this was necessary so He could provide the needed salvation for the people. He previously told the people that it was the Father’s will for Him to die on the cross. “So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will understand that I am he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me. And the one who sent me is with me—he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him” (John 8:28-29). His actions are always prompted by His Father. His death will provide life to those who will accept Him as their Lord and Savior. Accepting His offer of new life means placing their faith on Him and dying to their own selfish desires. Christ’s death on the cross produced “plentiful harvest of new lives.” You are one of those millions of lives that have experienced new life because you surrendered to His Lordship. This means that you will live your life in obedience to His will. This also means that all those attitudes that you know will lead to sinful actions should be removed. You are a new creation called to reflect the life of Christ. He wants your life to become an influence to others so you could lead them to acknowledge Christ in their life. In this way, you are taking part in causing plentiful harvest of new life in this world. It caused the life of His only begotten Son so that you could enjoy new life. In response to His sacrificial love, acknowledge that the life you have will be lived for His glory. “For God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body” (1 Cor. 6:20). Let Him continue to produce new life in you and through you.
Blessings.
