5/1/2024 (Wednesday) Today’s gospel reading: John 15:1-8

1 Jesus said to his disciples: I AM the true vine; and my Father is the vine grower.
2 Every branch in me, that bears not fruit, he will take away: and every one that bears fruit, he will purge it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
3 Now you are clean by reason of the word, which I have spoken to you.
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abide in the vine, so neither can you, unless you abide in me.
5 I am the vine; you the branches: he that abides in me, and I in him, the same bears much fruit: for without me you can do nothing.
6 If anyone abides not in me, he shall be cast forth as a branch, and shall wither, and they shall gather him up, and cast him into the fire, and he burns.
7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, you shall ask whatever you will, and it shall be done unto you.
8 In this is my Father glorified; that you bring forth very much fruit, and become my disciples.

5/1/2024 (Wednesday) Today’s gospel reflection / homily / sermon: John 15:1-8

In the gospel reading above, Jesus presents Himself as the true vine, with His followers as the branches, illustrating a vital spiritual truth about connection and productivity in the Christian life. This passage invites us to consider the essential nature of our relationship with Christ—a relationship that is the very source of our spiritual vitality and the fruit we bear.

Jesus tells us, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in them will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” This statement underscores an undeniable truth: our strength and ability to flourish spiritually come solely through our connection with Him. Just as branches can only bear fruit if they are connected to the vine, we can only produce meaningful, lasting spiritual outcomes if we remain in Jesus.

Bearing fruit in this context means manifesting the qualities of Christ in our lives—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These are not just admirable attributes but are tangible evidence of a life deeply rooted in the divine. They are the products of a connection that transcends the superficial and taps into the divine lifeblood that Jesus offers.

To remain in Him means to continuously seek His presence, to listen to His words, and to follow His teachings. It involves prayer, reflection, and a commitment to live out His commands daily. As we deepen our connection with Christ, we find ourselves not just surviving but thriving, beautifully bearing fruit that enriches the world around us. This spiritual productivity glorifies God and fulfills the purpose for which we were created, embodying the life-giving connection to our true vine, Jesus.

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You may also watch the video below for further reflection.