Scripture
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
Reflection
A mentor of mine once used the words, “fruitful and effective” to describe the life of a follower of Jesus. It is possible to be “fruitful and effective” without Jesus so to be clear we are talking about the kind of fruitfulness that comes from being “rooted” in Jesus. Jesus’ words here are so uncompromising; we must remain in Him the way a grape branch is connected to the vine. His commitment is to remain in us, our responsibility is to make Him the center of our lives and to keep him there. If we will do this, then He will make our lives fruitful (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell us about God and people?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- What is one way you can apply this truth to your life today?
- Who can you encourage with this story/message?
Prayer
Pray for our sister international churches in Shanghai: AGIF, SWIF, ICS and TEF.
