Jesus’ love abides - April 22

Today’s Readings:  AM Psalm 119:1-24; PM Psalms 12, 13, 14; Exodus 15:22-16:10; 1 Pet. 2:1-10; John 15:1-11

If you were to ask me to define the word “abide,” I would probably offer an answer that points to resting for shelter and restoration. Abide in Jesus’ love. Abide in Jesus. Abide. We are reminded over and over to abide. In the context of today’s gospel, my understanding of “abide” shifts from static rest to dynamic growth.

You see, Jesus paints the imagery of fruit growing on the vine, grown from buds of infancy. The fruit abides upon the vine for deeper connection, for growth, and for flourishing. After all, fruit doesn’t grow unless it is connected to the source of sustained nourishment. A grape pulled off before it is plump will not ripen to its fullest, but will be tossed aside, shriveled.

We are called into awareness of the true vine, so that we may bear the fruits of the Spirit in the light of the Risen Christ. Even in these rocky days, we abide in the nourishment of the Father. It is there that we know God’s love. We are fortified by God’s word and are rooted in God’s commandments. It is in abiding with Jesus that we grow to our fullest – we glorify God and flourish into complete joy.

May you be joyful and bear fruit this day. Alleluia!

-- Katherine+

Questions for Reflection

  • What branches in your life are no longer bearing fruit?

  • What spiritual practices help you to abide in God’s love?

Daily Challenge

Peter talks about Jesus as the living Stone. Go for a stroll today and look for a stone. Pick it up, if possible. Examine the rock and spend time reflecting on the reading from 1 Peter, contemplating the ways God is building you up.

Katherine Harper