Photo and Commentary ©2024 by Darren Milam
Wednesday, November 13, 2024
As you can see in this image, this branch is connected to the rest of the maple tree, showing off the beautiful fall colors. This is only possible with the branch still connected. If for any reason, the branch was severed, all the foliage would wither and die. We can read how this translates to our spiritual (and physical) lives in a few verses in John 15.
Verses 5-8 (NLT)
“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.”
Our God wants us to be connected. He wants us to produce the fruit (or gorgeous colorful leaves), as this shows we are fully connected to Him. What a thought – fully connected to our loving Father. Why would we want it any other way?
How do we stay connected? Our daily walk with Jesus. It’s a relationship that needs to be nurtured and attended to. We can think of these verses in our thoughts and actions – “those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit.” Remain in Him. Stay connected.