Daily Reflections ...

Jesus presents us with a powerful analogy: He is the true vine, and we are the branches. It is a grounded and visual metaphor that allows us to gain deeper insight into our relationship with Him. Remaining connected to Him is vital for our spiritual growth and fruitfulness for a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains attached to the vine.

But what does it mean to bear fruit? It means living a life that reflects God’s love, mercy, and goodness. It means growing in virtues; especially kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and humility. It means sharing the Gospel and being a witness to Christ’s love in our interactions with others.

While uncomfortable, it also means that areas of our lives will need to be pruned to promote growth and fruit. Just as a vine grower prunes the branches to ensure greater fruitfulness, God also prunes us through life’s challenges and trials, purifying and shaping us to become more like Christ so that we may continue growing and bear fruit.

As we remain connected to Christ we will experience His transformative power, bearing much fruit and glorifying God the Father. Let us remain in Christ, rooted in His love and nourished by His grace. Let us invite Him into every aspect of our lives and seek His guidance in all that we do.

+ Jesus, help me to acknowledge my dependence on You. Give me grace and guidance, that I may remain in You and bear fruit for You and Your Kingdom. Amen.

by Nick Kelly