John 15:2 He [the Father] removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes [and cleanses] to make it bear more fruit. [NRSV]
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Facts: Artful pruning of a grapevine is what produces better fruit and maintains the optimal health of the branches. The pruner determines which branches should be allowed to grow and which should be removed. The only shoots that yield grapes are those that grow each spring from one-year-old canes – those that began growing the previous year. Pruning is vital for the vine because old canes can still produce leaves that make a branch look good but only sap the strength and ability of the newer canes to produce fruit. It’s all about the fruit.
Truth: Jesus speaks in pictures I can understand. There is no substitute for new growth and how it contributes to fruit bearing and a healthy life of faith for the believer in Jesus Christ. I know how easy it is to look pretty good based on what has already happened in your life of faith. I know what it’s like to resist the pruning of things that were real and good “then” but are old now. I know the pruned branch looks really bare and exposed until new growth appears. I know the purpose of pruning is the fruit…and I know the purpose of grapes.
Inspiration: What turns the grape into wine? It is crushed and then in due time when the process is through, the wine will be new. You’ll be my wine in this world. 💕Jesus
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