Verse 16:33 is a great wrap up for today's reading. "Take courage; I have conquered the world."
First, let's talk about vines and fruit (chapter 15). This imagery tells us that relationships are very important, and fruitfulness depends on the relationship to the vine (which in this case is Jesus). What does it mean in this context to "bear fruit"? Jesus says it has something to do with abiding in His love (verse 15:10). He wants to fill us with joy (verse 15:11).
I have found "love" to be a challenge when it comes to a large church community. Love can be difficult for couples! Love can be even more difficult in families. Do you love me? (No need to answer that question in the comments!).
I visited St. John's UMC downtown several years ago with the staff I was working with then (Christ UMC in College Station). As we entered the St. John's we were were greeted with genuine love. I don't remember the exact words (it was a long time ago), but I remember watching the person at the desk greet everyone with love in his words.
I like the word "abide". "In Heavenly Love Abiding" was a song in the hymnal of the church I grew up in. The words of the first stanza are "The storm may roar without me, my heart may low be laid, but God is round about me, and can I be dismayed." Great song.
Tomorrow is Monday! Keep up the good work.
What a great scripture for June 6 (D-Day)..."Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends."
ReplyDeleteJohn 15 is my favorite chapter in John. I am a gardener and I can truly relate to letting God "prune" me. Before I was a Christian I tried all sorts of self help stuff (new age stuff, numerology, astrology, etc.). Nothing satisfied me and there was still a big hole. Then Jesus entered into my heart and God said, "Stop trying to do this on your own, trust me and let me make you fruitful."
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