Pastor Pusch

Lately I have been drawn back to the passage where Jesus describes our relationship to Him as branches. Remember the kid’s song, “His Banner Over Me is Love”. I remember being in children’s church singing the line that went “He is the vine and we are the branches” when we were supposed to stop and act like branches (or trees). It was a big deal! Who could be the silliest looking branch? It was a major competition, probably the reason we all loved singing that song. Kind of like, who can me the most obnoxious while singing “Father Abraham.” I am sure I won that award a time or two (sigh). I digress.

In John 15:5, Jesus says, “I am the vine and you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, it is he that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (esv)

Though there has been much discussion regarding this entire passage, verse 5 is a key focal point. If we can grasp this “life-philosophy”, then everything else won’t matter. We, as His children, must realize our place in Him. He is the vine and we are the branches. A branch without connection to the vine is dead. It does not produce any fruit and is good only to be gathered up and tossed in the fire. However, branches connected to the vine produce much fruit and will continue to grow as they remain connected.

Headline: Spiritual Growth Can Only Happen When Connected to the Vine.

It’s not about me. A branch cannot grow in and of itself. It needs the vine in order to survive and grow. We must stay connected to the vine. Jesus said, without Him, we can do nothing. He alone is our life and breath. It is the vine that gives us the nourishment and strength to grow. If is seems that you are going through a spiritual drought in life, connect with the vine, and allow Him to “reign” down and replenish your dry and thirsty soul. 

“If you abide in Me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, and bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.” John 15:7-10 (esv)

Dear Lord, help me. Apart from you I can do nothing, yet sometimes, I make it all about me. I struggle with this and it’s so basic to our walk with You. Help me to live on purpose and to walk intentionally.

Stay Connected,
Pastor Pusch