The Tribune

By REV ANGELA PALACIOUS

The well-known passage in John 15:5-8 (NIV) of the vine and the branches attempts to describe a relationship that speaks of intimate union, communion, connection and interrelatedness that has to be experienced to be understood. And even then it is partial knowledge only: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”

How do you relate to this image? How would you try to explain what is available to every person? Other translations of the word “remain” include terms such as “abide” and “dwell” to capture the feeling of spiritual oneness. If you will, spend some time reflecting on such a relationship with the Lord and then write in your journal a letter of grateful thanks to Almighty God for making it possible.

A piece of driftwood or a branch that has been broken off is a sober reminder or the impact of disconnection. When we allow disobedience and pride, rebelliousness or any other sin to separate us from the full flow of the Holy Spirit then we are in danger of disconnection. Psalm 51: 1-2, 10-12 (NIV) depicts the sense of separation that sin has caused: “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin…Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.”

Can you recall a time when you expressed such emotions in anguished prayer? Is now a time for your conscience to be pricked to evoke such a response? Journal your thoughts and feelings, as you contemplate your sinfulness, need for repentance and forgiveness and God’s offer of absolution.

Once this has occurred we are ready for reconnection. What difference will it make if you embrace this opportunity for full restoration? Would your soul be flooded with more love or peace or joy? What personal plans are you moved to make with this new “sap” coursing through your spiritual veins? As you write about this, include plans for your family, and meditate on the change that it can mean within your church family, and other environments such as school, work or various social activities.

The Hymn “Abide with me” reminds us that even in death, we may enjoy this intimate association with our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Since we do not know the day or time when our lives will come to an end, let us be ready. Let us put our affairs in order and enjoy sweet fellowship with the Lord, by surrendering everything to Jesus and allowing the Holy Spirit to take control.