“An intimacy that shows”
By Rev. Michael Stonhouse
Meditation – Saturday, February 24, 2024 John 15:1,6-16 (Forward, p. 26) CEV p. 1122
In the account of Peter and John appearing before the Sanhedrin in Jerusalem, there is one remark that is most ‘telling’: ‘the officials were certain that these men had been with Jesus’ (Acts 4:13c). So, how could they tell? There must have been something about them that marked them, distinguished them, as being different from the common lot of people.
I think that the answer lies in today’s passage from John. It is ‘rooted’ (no pun intended) in Jesus’ opening words, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.” He then goes on to describe the branches, which are us, and our relationship to that vine. He describes the one essential element to that relationship, which is abiding. Obviously, this abiding is something very personal and intimate, a ’joining at the hip’, as it were, with Jesus, a connection like no other. Jesus then goes on to say that abiding in Him, being nourished and sustained by Him, is essential not only for life itself but also for fulfilling our purpose, which is to bear fruit. “Apart from me, you can do nothing”, He says.
But there is more to it than just ‘abiding’ in Jesus: His words must also abide in us, which has four by-products, answered prayer, obedience (doing what He commands), love (loving each other), and fruitfulness (bearing fruit). All of this comes from abiding in Christ, abiding in His love. And, incredibly, as the authorities in Jerusalem observed, it is something that ‘shows’, that makes a mark upon our lives. Thanks be to God.
Forward notes: “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, as for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (verse 7).
“Remain in me, dear child, and let my words take root within your heart and soul; For in your faith and trust, your prayers shall bear much fruit and make you whole.
Ask what you will, with purest heart and I shall hear your every plea; My love and grace will never part, for you are precious unto me.
In every trial and circumstance, abide in me, my faithful friend; And I shall lead you in my dance, where joy and peace shall never end.
So, hold fast to my word and stay, and you shall see my power displayed; For I am with you night and day, and in my love, you are remade.
Moving Forward: “Write (or read) a poem about abiding in Jesus. Share it with us at #ForwardDaybyDay.”