Unify 4 of 11: “I am the true vine.”

There are two ways life goes: sometimes you may feel like you are withering, set aside and ready to be burned. Jesus tells us that the Father, like a good vine grower, prunes us of whatever does not bear fruit. But he also offers us the tremendous promise that if we remain in him, he remains in us, and we will bear much fruit. (John 15)

The theme of our series, Unify, is really highlighted this week, for not only are we united with Christ, we are united with each other. His life is in us, and as he became human, our life is in him. Have you experienced this incredible fruitfulness? How can you receive this amazing promise?

We need to strive to love each other, because this is the heart of who God is, and who he calls us to be. You may feel unable to love, just worn down, distracted and busy, or, too angry. God, however, is “greater than our hearts” (1 John 3). Even when we condemn ourselves, He offers us his divine love. Have you ever loved beyond your own limited love?

Let’s also remember God’s greatest gift, His Holy Spirit. In the Spirit we can find ourselves loving, serving, and growing into the people whom he calls us to be. Look at the first Christians, a community facing persecution, but growing as the Spirit builds them up. (Acts 9) This is God’s promise, to turn the tide on our scattering and sin, and draw us all together in Jesus, the true vine.