July 2, 2020
I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. John 15:5-8
When my daughter was in Sunday school over 20 years ago, she drew a picture after listening to the above scripture, and the drawing hung on our refrigerator for years because it was the first time that these verses became real to me. The drawing was of a vine and branches, but one branch had snapped off and was falling into the fire at the base of the vine. It became very clear that God was drawing my family and me closer to Him and to live in Him alone. Not only are we to live in Him by studying the Word and keeping His commandments but we need to allow Him to prune the stuff in our lives that does not glorify Him or bear fruit.
Since that day many years ago, God has brought people into my life to disciple me and I’ve experienced trials that have helped me grow in my faith. I pray the same for all those who have a desire to bring glory to God and build His kingdom.
Nancy Gerardo