Jesus Tells Us Who He Is: I am the Vine

Several years ago, I purchased several ducks for my small farm with the hope of watching them raise baby ducks. I thought this might be interesting and a source of delight for my grandchildren. Unfortunately, my ducks were not interested in laying on their eggs and hatching them, so for the first couple of years, none of their eggs hatched. But then, something happened that really surprised me! A couple of my older hens (chickens) went ‘broody’ (which meant they wanted to sit on eggs) and began to sit on a few of the duck eggs. 28 days later, I had five little ducks following around their ‘chicken’ mothers! They hid under their wings at first, then began to venture away; that is, until something, or someone, scared them. They stayed close to their mothers into adulthood and never mixed with the other ducks in the barnyard. As long as I had them, they drew courage and companionship from their mothers!

           

This is the way of nature, isn’t it? No matter the type or species, life can be gained through a herd, a family, a root system, or a vine. Jesus understood this!

           

In a sermon to his disciples, Jesus explained that he had the ability to give life and strength to those that would stay close to them. He used the analogy out of local vineyards when he said, “I am the vine, and you are the branches.” (John 15: 5) 

 

He explained that as long as his followers stayed connected to him by their faith and obedience to his teachings, they would live, grow, and produce fruit. The Vinedresser (Father God in this sermon) would tend the vines, caring and pruning for them so that they might stay healthy and fruitful. 

          

 “I am the vine” has become a powerful teaching in the Christian faith! We cannot ‘live’ in the faith without maintaining our faith in, and connection to, Jesus, the vine. Through him, we receive teachings, hope, and strength. No one can stop this – it is, quite literally, a “God thing!”

 

Let me encourage you to cling to the ‘vine’ that is Jesus. Allow him to help you in every way, and make an effort to cling to him, even when you do not ‘feel like it.’ When you cling to Him, your life will be better and more joyful!  

 

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Thank you for listening. We will see you next week!