INTERTWINED

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 (NIV)

Have you noticed couples who after a length of time together start to look and act alike? Researchers have concluded that the longer couples stay together, the more they start to look alike for two primary reasons. One reason is due to some facial similarities involved in attraction. Another reason is due to some shared life experiences as a couple. The longer they are intertwined the more similar they become.

The same is true with a vine and its branches. As they are intertwined they tend to take on similar characteristics. At first glance, it’s hard to tell the difference between which is part of the vine and which are the branches. They are so intertwined that it would take some effort to trace back to the roots to decipher the distinct difference. There seems to be a continuous flow as they wrap and interlock around one another.

With Jesus as the vine and you and me as the branches there is a distinct spiritual connection. Once we accept Him as Lord and Savior He wraps His whole being around us. It’s not just a matter of being joined at one end but being intertwined to the point where it is not obvious where He ends and we begin. It is a bond that is not easily unraveled unless we make a willing effort to pull away. As we remain wrapped up in Him, we have no other choice but to bear fruit. It simply is a natural response to being part of Him. Can you feel the warmth of His loving presence as His whole being is intertwined with yours?

Prayer: Lord, I thank You for being the vine that intertwines Yourself with me. I thank You for the comfort and peace it gives me to know that I don’t have to operate on my own. I simply must surrender control and let your sweet overpowering presence take control as You bear fruit through me.

Transcript for Daily Living - WB Journal