Daily Gospel Reflection for May 21, 2025

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Laurann Donahue

Today's Gospel: John 15:1-8

“I am the Vine, you are the branches.”

What a beautiful picture of our intimate relationship with Jesus Christ! We are attached to Him. Just like a vine sustains the branches with nutrients and water, Jesus nourishes us.

We are commissioned to spread the Gospel to the world, but that commission starts at home. That is part of the fruit we bear, literally and spiritually. How do we help our children stay attached to the Vine and bear fruit?

First, we listen to His Word. These morning Gospel reflections are a great start. A serious study of Scripture is another way to do that. So is careful listening to and discussion of the Sunday readings, especially the Gospel, at home. We can help our children understand the homily, but we can also get insights from them. Children may surprise you with their observations.

Next, we can encourage and model a good prayer life. Share prayers together in the morning before going to work and school. It doesn’t need to be long. Just a short prayer of gratitude or an Our Father. Say prayers together at night before bed. Praying the Rosary as a family can be fruitful as well. If a daily routine is difficult, try praying it once a week and gradually add days to your routine.

Also, make sure your children receive regular religious education inside and outside of the home. Interacting with children of the same faith and learning about the Scriptures and about our relationship with God will be beneficial in the long run. It can help them understand how to get closer to Him.

Finally, don’t skip Mass. Make sure that you are there every weekend and holy day of obligation. Being nurtured by Jesus Christ in the Eucharist is what sustains us and keeps us from being pruned from the vine.

Ponder:

What do I do in my everyday life to bear much fruit and keep from being pruned from the vine?

Pray:

Dearest Lord Jesus, help me to bear much fruit, especially in my family. I always want to be close to You.

Copyright 2025 Laurann Donahue