Connected?

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. (John 15:5, 8)

As we close out another year, let us keep in mind two things Christ asks of each of us - two things that will give us the best start to our new year. First and foremost, connect with him. We cannot expect to make wise decisions about our future, much less our present circumstances when we are not actively connecting with him. Secondly, we need to remain in a close relationship with him. The branches of a vine are no good without connection, but when connected, they have a source for life. Branches that are intertwined will actually grow stronger than those that are just trying to do things on their own. One vining branch may attempt to grow in the opposite direction of the rest, producing just a bit of fruit, but in time, the heat of day will scorch it, the birds will pick it clean, and the landscaper will lop it off!

The vine always has a 'trunk' to which it is connected. That 'trunk' is what has the root system attached to it - the means by which all the vine requires for growth will enter into the vine. Without connection to the 'source', the vine cannot expect to find nourishment, fruit will become non-existent, and it will soon wither and die. Perhaps the best thing we can do as we enter this new year is examine where we are finding our connection. If it is in the things of this world such as the value of our bank accounts, the upward mobility of our career, or the 'steadiness' of a hoped-for relationship, we may find ourselves a bit 'dry' and the fruit of the Spirit pretty much non-existent in our lives. If the source of our lives is the connection we find with Jesus each and every day, the fruit may not always be evident, but it is on the way!

If we want a strong start to our year, we will refocus our attention toward making the 'right connection' - that which is found in relationship with Jesus and nothing else. Then we will find that the strength that comes as we 'intertwine' with others who have also made such a commitment to remain connected to the source of all life (Jesus) will be exactly what we need in order to realize the growth and development of true spiritual fruit. Connection is paramount - to Christ first, then to others who also follow him. We may experience seasons of 'leanness' at times, but as long as the connection remains secure to the source of all life, the 'leanness' of what appears to be a non-fruit bearing season in our lives will reveal just how much prep has gone into the development of the fruit that is just about to break forth! Just sayin!