John 15:5-8

Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.

In our last meditation, Jesus began laying out the way forward for the new community that will be formed from everyone who puts their faith in Jesus. Look back over John 15:1-4 and then read today’s passage, John 15:5-8.

We have already noted that remaining in Jesus is not a passive activity, and Jesus drives that point home with these words about producing fruit. A true disciple of Jesus, a member of Jesus’ new community, will live a life that makes a kingdom difference in the world. The stark contrast between a living branch and a dead branch is the fruit of the kingdom of God produced through a purposeful connection to the Source of life and power.

Stop to consider the day ahead of you. Imagine some situations where you may have an opportunity to set things right in the name of Jesus. Chose one or two of these situations and imagine what it might look like for Jesus to work through you to produce kingdom fruit.

Read John 15:5-8 again noticing the marks of a true disciple of Jesus.

As we remain in Jesus and his life courses through our veins, we are transformed. Our worldview and our desires become more and more like his. When we soak ourselves in the words of Jesus, our thoughts become more like his thoughts and our requests begin to be more and more in line with his will for our lives and the good of the world. Our prayers, combined with our purposeful connection to Jesus, result in kingdom fruit that shines with the glory of God.

Stop to remember what you’ve been asking Jesus for lately. How, if at all, are your prayers changing as you purposefully remain in him? Talk to Jesus about this.

What do you think or how do you feel about the possibility of your life bringing great glory to God? Talk openly and honestly with Jesus about this.

As you end this time of meditation, consider asking Jesus to show you how you can more purposefully remain in him and how your life can make a kingdom difference in the world.

If you sense Jesus inviting you to take an action of some kind, write it down and take a first step today.

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