“‘I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing’” (John 15:5).

Whenever I buy grapes, I think of this verse. The grapes that are still on the vine last longer than the ones that have fallen off. I usually put them in a different container because I want them to be consumed before they go to waste.

Jesus’ teaching on remaining in Him is literally in front of my eyes. If we stay in the vine, connected, and getting our nutrition, we will stay “fresh.” We will get the spiritual food from the Holy Spirit if we let Him lead us. Reading the Bible will fill our hearts and minds with the truth. Our souls will be restored. Talking to Jesus throughout the day will definitely keep us connected to the Life Eternal Himself.

I always feel bad about the grapes that have fallen. Their time is short. Either they will fulfill the purpose of their creation or rot. It is a total waste when we disconnect from our life source and spiritually rot. May we always fill our days, hours, and minutes with Jesus and His purpose for our lives. After all, we are His idea!

God bless you and your loved ones!

Meryem Kennedy