Wednesday in the Fifth Week of Easter

“Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing” (Jn. 15:5). As I pondered this verse, I recalled the conversation between Jesus and Saul on the Damascus road. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting” (Acts 9:5). The relationship between Jesus (the vine) and his followers (the branches) emphasizes the need for mutual communion between Christ and all his members. Jesus identifies himself as the true vine, the source of life and strength for the branches. The branches are shoots from the vine that produce fruit and contribute to the life and health of the vine. There is an interdependence between the stem/root and the branches.

The image of the vine speaks volumes about God’s humility. The trunk and roots are hidden underground. In quiet, unseen ways, Christ works in the lives of each person. This unseen force brings positive growth and fruitful development. The unseen root produces the visible fruit of the Spirit in the branches. God is delighted when the beauty of the branches is recognized. Just as a branch needs to be attached to a vine to produce good fruit, we, too, need to be rooted in God to manifest the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Personal prayer, lectio divina, and liturgical prayer nurture this hidden fruitfulness in our lives. 

O God, Heavenly Vinedresser, thank You for the tender care You show us, for supporting our drooping leaves, and pruning undisciplined and vigorous shoot growth. Allow Your words to abide in us so that our prayers and actions may align with Your will. Allow us to bear much fruit for the glory of Your name, who live and reign forever and ever. Amen.