John 15:7-8

Stop.

Today we will focus on the word FRUIT. Breathe deeply and say it a few times as you meditate on this image.

Listen.

John 15:7–8 (NRSV)

7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.

Reflect.

What is the purpose of a grape vine? It is to produce grapes. The purpose of grapes is to make good food and drink for others to enjoy. There is a basic formula for how to produce good grapes: Good soil + good water + good sunlight + good pruning = Good Grapes.

Which part of the vine produces the grapes? Is it the branch? No, because a branch separated from the vine doesn’t do anything. Is it the vine? No, because the vine needs branches to produce grapes, and the vine needs the farmer to tend to it. Is it the farmer? No, because the farmer needs the vine and the branches to grow the grapes.

The key to producing good fruit is to have healthy relationships between the farmer, the vine, and the branches. When the relationships are healthy, the sap flows and the grapes pop off the branch. Yum!

The fruit of God’s vine is love (see Ephesians 5:22). When our relationships are healthy, love flows and life is poured out and overflowing to everyone. When we are in sync with God’s heart, then the things we want are the things that God wants for the world—which is love and justice—and it flows.

Pray.

God, please produce your fruit in my life today. May everyone who encounters me today taste the sweetness of your love for them.

Carry On.

As you go into your daily routine, remember that God loves you. As Jesus’ disciple (branch) you are a conduit of God’s love for others.