In today’s gospel we build on what Jesus told us yesterday. ‘I am the vine, you are the branches.’ (John 15:5). He makes it perfectly clear that apart from Him, we wither like branches severed from their life source.

To avoid this outcome, Jesus reveals both the promise and the path: ‘As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.’ (John 15:9). We remain in this love by keeping His commandments, the natural fruits of being so deeply loved. This profound truth reveals the divine chain of love flowing from the Father through the Son to us. Through obedience, we dwell in this eternal current of love.

These passages teach us the intimate closeness that we can experience with Jesus and God the Father. We are one with them, and together our joy will be complete. Jesus explicitly states this purpose: ‘I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.’ (John 15:11).

Loving Father, help us remain connected to You through Your Son, the true vine. May we abide in Your love, keep Your commandments, and experience the fullness of joy You promise. Strengthen us and help us bear fruit that glorifies You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

By Janeen Lamb