REDEMPTION IN THE VINE

I desire to go through my days with my LORD by my side....in John 15 we are given a treasure of wisdom that says in verse 1: "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener." And in verse 4: "Remain in me, and I will remain in you.  No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine."

At this time of year it is easy to see the delicate blooms on flowers that are held by a subtle thread to the stem of the flower or how about the vine that delicately holds a group of grapes together so they don't fall to the ground!

It should be no surprise to us then, that Christ used this analogy in John.  It is wonderful to think that HE delicately holds each one of us in HIS hands when we abide with HIM daily.  And in holding us, HE is encouraging us to "bloom" right where we are.  This is grace, plain and simple.  HE loves us just as we are when we come to HIM with an open heart, but HE won't leave us that way.... ever.

HIS vine is redemptive with grace, mercy and forgiveness.  When you experience this vine, then you want to bear fruit and you have a desire for HIM to prune you.  You realize over time that HIS pruning of you will allow you to be more fruitful, not only for HIM, but for others as well.  I want GOD to get rid of the "dead stuff" in my life to make room for all the new growth.  HE prunes and over time we GROW more into the people HE wants us to be. 

And when we are lost or in trouble we can hang on to HIS vine with both hands and feel HIS love and redemption there.... but I must remain in HIM daily, not just when I feel like it.  

This time of year causes me to see HIS example of HIS life giving VINE and how it works.... I would be a fool to ignore this lesson all around me.   Let us give many thanks for the summer.... a time of year filled with treasured blooms and beautiful vines.  A time of year to reflect on HIS goodness and grace....don't be afraid to stop and smell the roses.  HE is there, waiting for you to do so.... waiting for you to abide.... waiting for you to remain in HIM.

JOHN 15: 9 "As the FATHER has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love."