Gospel
John 15:1-8
I am the vine, you are the branches
Jesus said to his disciples:
‘I am the true vine,
and my Father is the vinedresser.
Every branch in me that bears no fruit
he cuts away,
and every branch that does bear fruit
he prunes to make it bear even more.
You are pruned already,
by means of the word that I have spoken to you.
Make your home in me, as I make mine in you.
As a branch cannot bear fruit all by itself,
but must remain part of the vine,
neither can you unless you remain in me.
I am the vine,
you are the branches.
Whoever remains in me, with me in him,
bears fruit in plenty;
for cut off from me you can do nothing.
Anyone who does not remain in me
is like a branch that has been thrown away – he withers;
these branches are collected and thrown on the fire,
and they are burnt.
If you remain in me
and my words remain in you,
you may ask what you will
and you shall get it.
It is to the glory of my Father that you should bear much fruit,
and then you will be my disciples.’
Reflection
In this Gospel, Jesus uses the image of the vine and branches to show the deep connection he wants with his disciples. Just as branches draw life from the vine, we can only bear fruit-good deeds, love, and faithfulness-if we remain united with Christ. God, as the gardener, lovingly prunes us through challenges and his word, helping us grow and become more fruitful. Without this connection, we wither and lose our purpose, but with it, we flourish and bring glory to God1236.
Are there areas in my life where I am resisting God’s gentle pruning, instead of trusting that it will help me bear more fruit?
Short Prayer
Lord Jesus, you are the true vine and I am your branch. Help me to remain in you, to trust your loving care, and to welcome your pruning, so that I may bear much fruit for your glory. Strengthen my faith and keep me always close to you. Amen.
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