Greetings on this the Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Easter
Readings: Acts 15:1-6; Psalm 122:1-2, 3-4ab, 4cd-5; John 15:1-8
Summary
Jesus said to his disciples: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower. He takes away every branch in me that does not bear fruit, and everyone that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit. You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you. Remain in me, as I remain in you (Jn 15:1-4a).
The apostles and the presbyters met together to see about this matter. [Then] Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord (Jn 15:6; PS 122:1).
Reflection
Differences of opinion will always occur. Nuances of meaning, local cultural standards and specific circumstances all play into the discernment of right action.
But you have to meet to make your way through the problem or opportunity.
In our gospel portion today Jesus describes us, himself and the Father in the allegory of The Vine and the Branches. The Father is the Vine Grower, Jesus is the Vine and we are his Branches. It is important to understand the relational characteristics of this metaphor describing the relations and actions that are the result of these consultations.
Think of the vine grower in ‘conversation’ with you as a branch and with Jesus as the vine. Pruning is spiritual health care (allow me, yes?) for the state of a soul.
He said to him in reply, ‘Sir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future. If not you can cut it down.’” (Lk 13:8-9).
Since scripture is filled with double meanings the drying and burning of the branches can be encountered in both ways:
- The restorative effort to reclaim the branch. If you struggle with this understanding go back to Ezekiel chapter 15 (The Useless Vine) and Ps 80:15, 19b – Turn back again, God of hosts; look down from heaven and see; Visit this vine revive us, and we will call on your name.
- The final end if the branch never comes back to life.
Personal Reflection
The Father and the Son are always talking about you — how to help you — and trying to engage with you in conversation. Take the meeting! [Meet] together to see about this matter. [Then] Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/050626.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry