Vital Link

“I am the Vine, you are the branches. When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing. John 15:5‭ MSG

Life too is about relationships. There is nobody alive without vital connections. You were born by a person into a family, with ties leading into other families, related by both blood and marriage. You really can't do much about your foundations, because they define your origin and are reference points that help people understand where you are coming from.

Can we draw a parallel between the above and today's extract? This is a picture of a tree, with roots, a vine and branches. There is no part that could exist on its own, and no part exists without taking its nourishment and sustenance from somewhere. Jesus referred to himself as the Vine. That means that as sure as he is, he also takes his nourishment from the roots that go deep down into the ground and hold up the vine. God is that sure foundation and he has established Jesus as the only vine that can support all branches. We are the branches, also taking support, nourishment and sustenance from the vine. If Christ is connected to God, we must be connected to Christ if we are to enjoy the fullness of life that only God can give.

If my life will make impact, my connection with God must be unbroken. Check out the words used: the relation intimate and organic. There is nothing ordinary about a relationship with God. It is unique, special and must be nurtured and sustained. I cannot flip an on/off switch anytime I don't feel like relating with God; it doesn't work that way. The branches do not choose when to be connected; they must always be connected if they are to enjoy the fullness of what God has on offer.

If I am to make impact therefore, I must keep that link secure. My life is like a seed planted on the earth, in the place where God has placed me. I am his hands, eyes, mouth and ears, and all I do must reflect God. If I am filled with Christ, when I speak, act or relate with others, God must be manifest. If I lose that vital link, or I am separated from Christ, then I am powerless, direction-less, and without any hope.

I choose to keep that vital link. The benefits are enormous and eternal, and a permanent loss of connection also has eternal consequences. What will it be for you too? His time of favour is here.