Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.
Today's Gospel: John 15:1-8
I find Jesus tucked away in a little vineyard. He is diligently working, but He is also very aware of my presence. He invites me to come closer, and as I approach Him, I notice an abundance of grapes, the bearing of fruit. I also notice barren branches that He is persistently removing.
I soon realize that this vineyard is really my heart.
As He continues to work, I feel some tugging on my heart. Some of the tugging is a relief, and I can breathe more deeply. But some of the tugging is uncomfortable, leaving my heart raw with emotion.
Is this really necessary, Lord, these pangs of discomfort? Why does growth and change always include a little pain?
Jesus explains that in order to remain in the Father’s love,
“He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and every one that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit.” John 15:2
He goes on to explain that the more removing and pruning He does, the more wholly I become myself. This is why I can breathe more deeply. But this is also why I feel a little pain, because those fruitless branches are stubborn. They represent my wounds, my defense mechanisms, and the lies I have been told and continue to believe. And in order for me to remain in Jesus, those things must be uprooted.
With tenderness, Jesus looks at me intently to make sure I understand.
“By this is my Father glorified.” John 15:8
In His gaze of love, I know that He sees me whole, even when I’m not. He invites me to rest in Him, as He continues His careful work in the vineyard of my heart.
Ponder:
What important work does Jesus want to do in your heart?
Pray:
Lord, may I always remain in You, because apart from You, I truly can do nothing.
Copyright 2023 Sarah Damm
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