Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
January 7, 2025
John 15:1-9
1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vineyard keeper. 2 He removes any of my branches that don’t produce fruit, and he trims any branch that produces fruit so that it will produce even more fruit. 3 You are already trimmed because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. A branch can’t produce fruit by itself, but must remain in the vine. Likewise, you can’t produce fruit unless you remain in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, then you will produce much fruit. Without me, you can’t do anything. 6 If you don’t remain in me, you will be like a branch that is thrown out and dries up. Those branches are gathered up, thrown into a fire, and burned. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask for whatever you want and it will be done for you. 8 My Father is glorified when you produce much fruit and in this way prove that you are my disciples. 9 “As the Father loved me, I too have loved you. Remain in my love.
Good Morning. Stand up and bless the Lord!
It is interesting to think about gardening in the midst of winter, especially as yesterday’s snow has covered all our plants. Like us, the plants need a time to rest and refresh, and what is more comforting than a big, fluffy blanket?
I love to pull the covers up to my neck and then allow myself to take a deep breath and relax. As a kid, I remember the comfort of layers of quilts on my bed. I have always been hot-natured, so I often have to put a foot or hand outside the covers, but I long for the comfort the weight of the fabric brings. Without that cover, I don’t rest as well.
In some translations, we see the word vinedresser in place of vineyard keeper. God the Father is the vinedresser: The vinedresser is the keeper of the vineyard. When I think of this role, I see God as the overseer, the one who makes sure everything is in place to allow the optimum production of fruit.
The vinedresser knows when and how much to prune, add nutrients, and when water is needed. God cares for us in the same way by providing us with all that is needed to live an abundant life. Sometimes, we must be poked and prodded to see and hear God’s message. God is gracious and merciful, working around and through our imperfections to create a masterpiece.
Loving Lord, Maker of all things! We are flawed. We try to take charge, but you patiently mold us into your children. Thank you! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Through the Holy Spirit, we are transformed.
God is the vinedresser; Jesus is the vine; we are the branches! Pastor Liz
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