Scripture: John 15:4
Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
Thought for the Day: Let’s be very clear, the fruit being produced was not for Welch’s Grape Juice or even a grape flavored slush from Sonic. Though I’m pretty certain first century folks, especially those in the desert areas of the Middle East, would have enjoyed a slush of any flavor. With that said, wine was the drink of choice. In recent centuries, many people have tried to suggest that it wasn’t really wine or that Jesus never allowed a drop of alcohol to cross his lips. If that’s the case, then it would be the second great miracle at the wedding in Cana — Jesus changing water in to wine and then changing it into grape juice. Let’s put all that silliness behind us and recognize the importance of wine in the time of Jesus. Not only was the fermenting process necessary for preserving the beverage, but wine was enjoyed for the same reason it is enjoyed today. Shall we say it reduced a persons stuffiness. Wine created a wonderful party atmosphere, and though scripture cautioned against drunkenness, it seems to encourage feasting and drinking wine in abundance. In a time when water purification systems did not exist, wine was necessary for survival while also becoming a symbol of celebration. When Jesus speaks of bearing fruit when connected to him, he is speaking of how those who truly connect to him will share a sustenance necessary for true life, while also providing reason to truly celebrate. So ask yourself, does my life provide life-giving sustenance to others, while also yielding a reason to celebrate?
Prayer: O God of Mercy, may my life, so deeply connected to you, provide a sustenance to the hurting and the hungry that will have them so full of life that they will be dancing in the streets. Amen.
SEE YOU SUNDAY
