The Vine

Vineyard of Contessa de Carneros, Napa Valley, California

Another metaphor for Jesus is that of the vine.  In this analogy we are the branches and derive our sustenance from the vine.  In the analogy of the bread we are called upon to come, to take and to eat.  In the metaphor of the vine, the idea is that of remaining, abiding, resting.   As we abide the sap or life blood of the vine flows into us.

Contessa de Carneros Chardonnay Grapes

All that we derive from the vine is not for ourselves alone but also for those around us.  In our connection to the flourishing, life giving plant we produce fruit, sweet, tasty and nourishing.*   It is an effortless process.  Our own anxious striving and straining produces nothing.  As we abide we produce.

Let us make this a day of rest as we lean heavily in dependence upon our Vine acknowledging that in our own strength we can accomplish nothing.

 I am the vine, 

you are the branches.

The one who abides in me produces much fruit,

for apart from me you can do nothing.  

John 15:4-5 (ISV)

*Fruit speaks of all good works and products of love: The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.)

Gal 5:22-23 (NLT)