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.
Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless
it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me. I am the
vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much
fruit, because without me you can do nothing.
Anyone who does not remain in me will be thrown out
like a branch and wither; people will gather them and throw them into a fire
and they will be burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask
for whatever you want and it will be done for you. By this is my Father
glorified, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.”
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Reflection:
The story is
told about two neighbors. One had a bright and positive disposition in life,
while the other was often gloomy and negative in almost every aspect of his
life.
As we look more closely into their daily routines, we
learn that the one with a joyful spirit made it a point to attend Holy Mass
regularly and nurtured a deep and consistent prayer life. The other, sadly, did
not believe in God.
In the Gospel, Jesus tells us, “I am the true vine,
and my Father is the vine grower… Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a
branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither
can you unless you remain in me” (John 15:1, 4).
These words of Jesus are a powerful reminder of the
necessity of staying connected to Him. When we look at the lives of people
around us, we can often see that those who live in union with God—regardless of
their religious affiliation or social standing—tend to experience more peace,
inner joy, and serenity. On the other hand, those who are distant from God
often find themselves burdened with restlessness, confusion, and unnecessary
worries.
As we journey through this temporary life, it is
essential that we remain connected to our true Vine—Jesus Christ. Of course,
challenges, disappointments, and even suffering may still come our way. But all
of these are part of the human experience. And amidst it all, Jesus lovingly assures
us of His presence, His strength, and His peace—if we intentionally choose to
stay close to Him in faith and prayer.
So let us ask ourselves with sincerity: Do I make it a
priority to stay connected with the Lord every day? Do I allow Him to guide my
thoughts, decisions, and way of life?
May we never forget that life with Jesus, even with
trials, is always more meaningful, more peaceful, and more fruitful than life
without Him.
– Marino J. Dasmarinas
