On this Fifth Sunday of Easter we hear another “I am” statement from Jesus. He continues to reveal who he is and how he is with us. Jesus proclaims that he is the true vine, we are the branches of the vine, and the heavenly Father is the vine grower.
Two words are repeated again and again to emphasize their importance. “Remain” occurs eight times. We are to remain in Jesus as he remains in us. “Bearing fruit” occurs five times. The purpose for remaining on the vine is to produce the good fruit of faith, hope, and love, as well as all the other Christian virtues.
What helps you to remain on the vine? What helps you to bear good fruit?