Word to the Wise
Sunday, May 10, 2009 - Fifth Sunday of Easter
[Acts 9:26-31; 1 John 3:18-24; John 15:1-8]"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 every one that does he prunes so that it bears more fruit.......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.
I remember well my first visit to the California wine country in the Napa Valley. It was in November 1978 not long after the annual harvest of the grapes. The whole atmosphere of the region seemed to smell of crushed grapes! My host and I visited one of the large wineries to make a tour. The vines were planted almost up to the building, so I was able to walk over and take a picture of them. The leaves were just beginning to turn color before falling off. I also learned of all the labor that goes into producing a truly good wine. I remember thinking of this passage from the Gospel of John about the vine and the branches and later framed one of the photos I took to serve as a way of remembering the trip and the gospel. The message is both affirming and challenging. It is affirming in its assurance that together with Christ we can accomplish much - bear much fruit! (Hopefully a good vintage!) It is challenging because one of the necessary features of viticulture is pruning! Any lasting healthy relationship requires the discipline of regular communication and "feedback" (pruning) so that destructive behavior and attitudes don't become a threat. The acceptance in faith of Jesus and his mission means that we must take on the discipline of discipleship! The two words are not just casually related! Seeing a good glass of wine as more than just a beverage adds to the enjoyment and depth of the experience. Seeing ourselves as God's own vintage can give depth to our efforts to bear much fruit. AMEN
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