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
We are invited to abide in the everlasting presence of Jesus Christ. We are filled with a sense of deep peace and an indescribable love when Jesus states, “Abide in me as I abide in you.” Our relationship to the Divine can sometimes be complicated, full of doubt, confusing, and even wild. But encouraged by Jesus’ words in this gospel message from John, we can rest assured that being rooted in the love of Christ is enough—we can abide with the strength of Jesus our Savior.
Our footsteps may falter sometimes. There is anxiety moving through this chaotic and uncertain world. But our faith connects us to the stalwart central vine. We have Christ as our fellow sojourner through the bumpy and messy paths of life. Even if our steps are small and hesitant, they are empowered by our relationship to the Divine. Thanks be to God that we can abide in such grace.
Prayer
Abiding God, we rest assured that you keep us close in love and care. Amen.
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