1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
5 “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.
Success can create the illusion that we are self-sufficient. We begin to trust our experience, ability, discipline or reputation.
Jesus gives us a humbling picture: He is the vine, and we are the branches. A branch may look impressive for a short time after being disconnected, but it has lost the source of life.
Jesus does not say, “Apart from me you can do a little.” He says, “Apart from me you can do nothing.”
This does not diminish our gifts; it puts them in their proper place. Every ability, opportunity and accomplishment is sustained by grace.
Fruitfulness comes from remaining in Christ. Our first calling is not to produce but to abide. Before the work, the meeting, the decision and the achievement, we remain connected to Jesus.
The narrow way leads away from self-sufficiency and into daily dependence.
Where have I begun relying upon my ability more than the presence of Jesus?
Jesus, you are the source of my life. Forgive me for acting as though I can flourish without you. Help me remain in your love and bear fruit that brings glory to the Father. Amen.
