John 15:1-8 (NRSV)
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Chapter 15"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. Verse 2He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. Verse 3You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you. Verse 4Abide 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. Verse 5I 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. Verse 6Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. Verse 7If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. Verse 8My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.
Devotion
In verses just prior to today’s text, Jesus tells his followers, “If you love me, keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. I will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you” (John 14:15-16, 18).
Jesus goes on to state that he is the true vine and that so long as we remain in contact with him we can be assured that he will not abandon us. We are further assured that our prayers will be heard. So we can rest in that promise and be comforted as we continue to bear fruit as his disciples.
How does my behavior, speech and attitude toward others and myself demonstrate my relationship to my God? Do I really practice what I say I believe? What is it that I can do to become more strongly connected?
Prayer
Creator God, keep me in your concern and show me the way you would have me go. Give me strength to travel in that direction and the wisdom to follow in your steps. Thank you for being part of my life. Amen.