Observation: Jesus gives his disciples this metaphor of the vine and the branches. He is the true vine, and we disciples are branches. The branches are where the fruit grows, but it is from the vine where they receive all nutrients. However, he also tells them that there is a consequence for separating from from the vine. Branches when separated wither and die, and then are only good for being burned as wood. However, branches that remain connected to vine produce fruit, and when that vine is Jesus they may produce fruit of their choosing, as they ask the Lord.
Application: I have seen branches cut from a plant in the spring and summer. At this time, when they are alive and leafy but then cut, they are green and supple ... but then over the next few days their leaves shrivel, they change color all over - the leaves and bark and internal wood - and become brittle and easily broken. They aren't just biologically dead by being cut from the tree, they are transformed into a dead and decaying thing.
The Lord promises that, if I remain in him, I will not just be alive, but I may ask for fruit from him.
Remaining in him means to obey his commands ... to avoid sins, love others, serve the Lord. I don't always do this well, but I wish to, and daily devotions in the word are a part of that.
The fruit I wish is ... meaning. I am a 55 year old man, with little to no understanding of my mission in life. I struggle to find joy in my daily work and activities. I am not even sure how to seek such joy and meaning. This is the fruit I ask for. I desire an understanding of the purpose that will give meaning to my journey and joy in serving the Lord.
Prayer: Lord, I ask it again. Please guide me this day to the purpose for which you intend for me, which will give joy and meaning to my life. May I walk with you on this journey. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment