Monday, March 17

I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine-grower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.

John 15:1-11

DIFFERENT BUT DEPENDENT

When I was growing up my father always planted a huge vegetable garden – enough to feed the entire neighborhood. Much of the produce grew on vines – grapes, squash, string beans, pole, limas, etc... a wonderful variety of tastes and textures! But all of that good eating was dependent on the close relationship of the productive smaller branches to the rooted parent vine.

Jesus compares our relationship to Him, to the reality of the growing garden. We are all different - in appearance, skills and personality. A church can be a fascinating mix as we grow to respect and enjoy our differences. However, we can only bear fruit for God's kingdom as we return regularly to the True Parent Vine for regular worship, learning and fellowship together. Jesus said, "Apart from me you can do nothing."

Prayer: Creator God help us to value our differences just because they are your gifts. Keep reminding us that you are the source of all life and as we stay close to you our gifts will bear fruit.

 

Jean Perkins (1990)