Rev. Dr. Leslie Taylor
July 6, 2025: FruitFULL Faith
Galatians 5: 22-23
Our youth, preaching
Our youth spent a week at camp focused on the “Fruit of the Spirit.” Although there are many descriptive words, they are all fruits of the same Spirit. Imagine many different fruits growing from one tree. From God come all the flavors.
What does a community that lives by the Spirit look like? They choose to love without expecting anything in return. They find joy in one another and in God, regardless of the circumstances they face. They practice peace by working to restore brokenness and build a world that is whole and in harmony with God and itself. They understand the value of patience, enduring the challenges of the world and the offenses of others without seeking retribution.
They demonstrate kindness through both their words and actions, helping one another both within and outside the community. They act from a place of goodness by offering selfless care. They are faithful and dedicated to the Spirit’s work, and they can depend on each other. In gentleness, they don’t overreact but respond appropriately to the situation. Finally, the members and the group practice self-control by managing their emotions and actions, allowing the community to thrive. This is not a random wish list.
Paul intentionally begins with love and ends with self-control. Love must lead; it is given by the Spirit and sets the tone for the community. Self-control completes the list because living by love results in a community that looks very different from one driven by anger, disunity, idolatry, and other ways we live when left to our own desires. Our youth have returned home and will share the fruit they received at the Community of the Great Commission.
The way we worship is the way we live.
Worship is the work of the people, bringing together our fullest selves in a communal act of love and gratitude. Each voice is important; each person is valued as the Spirit draws out our authentic gifts and talents, shared in the ever-widening circle of God’s people. We hope you’ll join us this week as we gather to worship the God of extravagant welcome.