The grapevine is a highly productive plant, capable of yielding a large quantity of grapes from a single vine. In the Old Testament, the vine and its grapes were often used symbolically to represent Israel’s fruitfulness. However, Israel’s disobedience and failure to wholeheartedly love God led to the vine being seen as a symbol of disappointment. Despite professing love for the Lord and a willingness to obey, Israel often strayed by worshiping false gods and intermarrying with foreign women.

    When Jesus appears on the scene in the flesh John chapter 15 opens up by saying, “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener.” All the listeners were familiar with the Law; they could easily grasp Jesus’ reference to the “vine” as vineyards were abundant during that period. By stating that He was the true vine, Jesus may have intended for them to recall Jeremiah 2:21, which likened them to a corrupt wild vine. When Jesus refers to Himself as the “true vine”, He is trying to convey that He is their real source for nourishment, for strength, salvation, provision, and for life! Jesus is here, proclaiming that there is no need for individuals to be their own vine. Many of us have become accustomed to controlling our own destinies, making our own choices, and pursuing our own desires, only to find disappointment. There is no longer a necessity to make things happen. Why? Because Jesus, the true vine, is here!    

     When we look at verse 5, Jesus continues by saying, “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” Jesus is stressing the point that you are no longer the vine! Jesus says, “I am the vine….” You are not the vine, but Jesus Himself is the vine; you and I are the branches. This is our relationship! Those branches, those disciples, and those followers who remain in Jesus are fruitful branches!!! We have now been united to Christ just as branches are connected to the vine.

     Jesus is the only one who can make us fruitful. Without Christ, none of us possess the ability to produce good fruit. We will have a sense of peace when we realize the satisfaction that comes from abiding or remaining in Jesus! Today’s thought is meant to prompt self-examination and address the question: “Who Is Your Vine?” Upon careful consideration, we realize that without being connected to Jesus, we are left feeling empty, hopeless, and unproductive, ultimately resulting in our destruction. However, those of us who abide in Christ, like branches attached to the true vine, thrive, bear fruit, and hold onto the promise of Heaven. Therefore, let us always remember that true victory lies not in being the vine ourselves, but in staying firmly connected to the true vine, which is Jesus.