John 12:24-26  Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.  Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.  Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.

The humble follower of God serves Him wholeheartedly and the follower’s seeds of service multiply the Father’s goodness. Dying to self produces a fruitful spirit of aliveness in following Christ, cultivating a willingness to serve God’s people in humble acts of love.  No longer slaves to our selfish ways, we are free to serve God by recognizing and actively  meeting the needs of others.  When we die to self, the Spirit produces new seeds of service, humility, hope and aliveness in us! As we follow Christ in our new spirit, we care about who God cares about and our compassion grows.  

Photo: Montreal Gardens