July 3: Recognition

Scripture Lesson: Matthew 7:15-20

On this date in 1966, pitcher Tony Cloninger hit two grand slam home runs and drove in nine runs as the Braves defeated the Giants 17-3. Cloninger was the first National League player to hit two grand slams in a game, and his nine RBIs set a major league record for RBIs by a pitcher. Such a record-setting day of hitting by a pitcher is certainly worthy of recognition.

Today’s Scripture lesson comes from the Sermon on the Mount. In the text, Jesus cautions us to be aware of those who teach the wrong things in life. We can recognize good sound teaching and teachers by the fruit they produce in their lives for the Kingdom. The world tries to teach us that we are the most important, while Christ is teaching us to serve others. Look around and see where you see others producing good fruit in their lives. Those are the kind of people we need to surround ourselves with and to learn from as we grow in our faith.

1. Who are the fruit producers in your life?

2. Take the opportunity today to thank them.

3. What is the kind of fruit we should be looking for in the lives of others?

Cloninger’s record still stands today. The fruit we see in others and the fruit we produce in our lives will always stand for the kingdom!