A friend of mine fell and broke an arm. Eventually, there will be more tests and therapy to check for evidence of healing and improved motion and strength.

This week I’m looking again at the teaching of John the Baptizer. Like my friend’s doctors, John was hoping to see evidence of improvement. He warned his listeners to “produce fruit” giving proof that they had repented of their sin. The crowd basically responded with, “How do we do that?”

John gave three examples.

• “The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same” (Luke 3:11). In other words, we should share with those in need, not hoarding extras for ourselves.

Sharing with the needy has endless possibilities. We can give away material possessions, demonstrate hospitality, or mentor in our area of expertise. We might share financially and with encouraging words.

• When tax collectors asked, “[W]hat should we do?” John told them, “Don’t collect any more than you are required to” (Luke 3:12a-13).

This could translate into not being greedy. Don’t take advantage of or cheat others. Be people of integrity.

• Finally, John instructed soldiers, “Don’t extort money and don’t accuse people falsely—be content with your pay” (Luke 3:14b).

The Message version interprets this as not harassing or blackmailing others and being content with our pay or rations. Again, in whatever ‘job’ we find ourselves, let’s treat others the way we want to be treated while being honest and content with what we’ve received.

The apostle James described it this way, “… faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:17). In summary, our attitudes, words, and actions should show more and more evidence of a lifestyle of faith.