Week 7: 30th March Holy Week “I am the True Vine” (John 15:1)
Jesus says “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener… Remain in me, as I also remain in you.” This image can help us think about what Lent means and how we can draw strength from Christ.
What Does “True Vine” Mean?
When Jesus says He’s the True Vine, He’s telling us that He’s the source of real life. Just like a vine gives energy to its branches, Jesus gives us what we need to grow. If we try to live apart from Him, we lose direction and purpose. God, the gardener, lovingly looks after us and helps us grow, cutting away things in our lives that hold us back. Lent is a great chance to let go of stuff that distracts us and makes space for God to help us become new.
Staying Connected to Jesus
“Remain in me”—these words are all about sticking close to Jesus. It’s not just sitting back but choosing to connect with Him through prayer, reading Scripture, and spending time at church. Lent is a good time to do this more intentionally, maybe by taking a few quiet moments each day or joining community activities like the Stations of the Cross or helping others. The more we stick with Jesus, the stronger we get to face challenges and become better people.
Making a Difference
Being connected to the True Vine helps us bear fruit—like love, patience, kindness, and self-control. We don’t just do this for ourselves, but to help others. Lent reminds us that our faith isn’t just about us—it’s about sharing hope and compassion, especially with those who are struggling. As we lean on Jesus, we’re invited to go out and make a positive impact in our world.
Looking Forward to New Life
In this final week, think about staying connected to Jesus, the source of growth and fruitfulness. Take some time to think about what it means for Jesus to be the True Vine. Let God trim away anything that gets in the way of your connection with Him. Stay close, even when things feel tough or uncertain, because God is working in you. As Easter comes, may your life be full of new energy, joy, and love, bringing light to everyone you meet.
Prayer: Jesus, keep me connected to you, the source of real life. Cut away what holds me back and grow good things in me—like love, joy, and peace. Help me stick with you and share your goodness with everyone around me. Help me to have strength to remain rooted in you and bear good fruit in my daily actions. Amen.