John 15:1-17: Glory, Part V – Vine and Branches
Friday, July 22, 2022
We have explored the mystery of Christ’s power that is found in humility, emptiness, and service. We have examined Jesus’ words as recorded by John, The Beloved Apostle. Today we look to understand God’s glory in the image of the Vine and Branches.
Today’s lesson on Glory: Once we understand that we find life only as branches of the great vine of Christ, we begin to understand the gift of glory.
When we read varying versions of these verses we find a path to becoming healthy branches in this glorious vine of life. Today we consider what it means to be a willing branch of this vine. The citations below are from THE MESSAGE. Use the drop down menus on the scripture link above to find other versions . . . and reflect on the challenge and gift of this invitation to be an integral part of Christ’s glory.
Jesus says: I am the Real Vine and my Father is the Farmer.
If Christ is willing to become a part of the creator’s whole, then so must we.
Jesus says: Live in me. Make your home in me just as I do in you.
What are the greater implications of building our home in Christ rather than in the world around us?
Jesus says: I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing.
Do we fully comprehend and believe this statement from Jesus?
Jesus says: I’ve loved you the way my Father has loved me. Make yourselves at home in my love.
Do we fully feel and return God’s love through the way we act and speak?
Jesus says: I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature.
Are we ready to be truly filled with a blooming, mature joy?
Jesus says: You didn’t choose me, remember; I chose you, and put you in the world to bear fruit, fruit that won’t spoil. As fruit bearers, whatever you ask the Father in relation to me, he gives you.
Can we believe that we are chosen, and worthy and loved?
Jesus says: But remember the root command: Love one another.
Do we trust this love? Are we open to this love? Are we willing to be pruned in order to become strong in this life-giving vine?
And so we pray,
Sustaining and loving God, you have created us out of your wonderful love. You have created us for your generous love. You have called us to your sustaining love. Keep us always on your vine so that we might be continually nourished by you. We ask this through Jesus Christ. Amen.
To find more thoughts on the metaphor of the Vine and Branches, click on the image above for a post at: https://jeffsjottings.wordpress.com/2015/05/08/vine-and-branches/
The Noontimes 