Daily Reflection

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. 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.”

Pruning is about cutting away parts of a plant to increase growth and fruitfulness. It’s never been clear that plants appreciate it at the time, but it is generally understood that it’s beneficial to the purposes of the one caring for the plant. There was likely some uncomfortable shifting by the disciples as they heard Jesus say this because they’d doubtlessly already experienced some elements of pruning since they’d begun to follow him. Who knew that following Christ would mean some things will need to be left behind? Disciples.

Mighty God, You know the parts of my life that can be used for Kingdom purposes and the parts that are unneeded. Help me grow in understanding as to which is which. Amen

Christian Seasons Calendar

Daily Reflection

Monday, April 22, 2024