This morning we looked at another aspect of our identity as the people of God: Jesus described Himself as the Vine, His disciples as branches, and God as the gardener. (John 15:1-17) The metaphor describes connection and relationship, intrinsic elements of our identity with God.
Pruning is the first thing mentioned by Jesus and seems counter-intuitive to us in the natural realm, but has a positive purpose (increaesd fruitfulness.) In the same way, the trials and testing which we find so difficult in life are ways that God refines and purifies us (see James 1:2-3, Romans 5:1-5). He is able to use all circumstances for good (Rom 8:28) and wants us to bear much fruit.
In order to be fruitful, we must learn to abide or remain in Christ. This means to dwell in Him, to make our home in Him (rather than in the world.) Great things are promised to us in prayer if we learn to abide in Christ.
Love and obedience are highlights of our relationship with Christ. As Jesus said in Matt 22:37-40, love for God and for others are the cornerstone of all the commandments, and the reflection of our identity in God.
Dependence on God is a sign of maturity, which again seems odd to us, as we spend so much time teaching our children independence and craving independence! The story of Mary and Martha illustrates the need for relationship over distracted busyness (Luke 10:38-42) Our identity as branches of the vine means we must learn to live in close relationship with Jesus, depending on Him and living out our faith through love and obedience. We accept the difficult times because we know we have moved from being servants to being friends of God, and we know that God is working for good in all circumstances, even when we may feel pruned back and exposed to the elements! To live with God as our permanent home means we cultivate time with Him and seek to sit at His feet, listening to what He says. That is the way to fruitfulness, joy and a life worth living.