John 15:1-17

Jesus, the Vine from which each of us draws life, asks us to remain firmly planted in His love, that we may know life and be abundant in good works.

"The just shall flourish like the palm tree, shall grow like a cedar of Lebanon. Planted in the house of the Lord, they shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall bear fruit even in old age, always vigorous and sturdy, As they proclaim: "The Lord is just; our rock, in whom there is no wrong." (1)


Fruitful Branches

Remain in Me as I'm in you,
Like branches stemming from the vine;
The sustenance of life flows through,
The one that remains one of mine.

The branches which remain barren,
Are cut off and burned in the fields;
The branches which blossom are then
Pruned back to bear abundant yields.

My words will sustain life within,
That you may live with joy replete.
Love each other; strive not to sin,
As one with Me, wholly complete.

You are My friends; all that I've heard
From My Father, I've shared with you;
You are chosen to bear the Word
Abundantly, as I imbue.

Keep My Word, to My Spirit cling;
Without Me, you can do nothing.


May the True Vine sustain His life in us, that the fruit of true charity may be borne abundantly through us.

1. Psalm 92:13-16


(c) Paul Buis, 2005