Pruning Time

“I am the true vine and my Father is the vinedresser.  Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” — (John 15:1-2)

An elderly neighbor of mine always spent time tending his beautiful rose bushes.  I would look over the short fence and enjoy the fragrant roses. One day, I paid little attention to his cutting several bushes and it wasn’t until later in the day when I returned to view what I thought was a massacre — all the flowers and leaves were gone!  Why would he do such a thing to the roses he loves?  He answered by giving me a lesson about pruning and how he expected greater blooms from his already productive bushes.  I failed to comprehend it.  Sure enough, though, time went on and roses appeared, more vibrant than ever.

When Jesus spoke of pruning, it was in the context of fruitful living for those who follow him (see John 15:1-17).  Christians are called to bear fruit — performing actions that reveal our connection to Jesus, the true vine.  We are reminded that we can do nothing apart from Christ (v. 5).  Similar to rose bushes, vines need to be pruned in order to have greater fruitfulness.  

I like the thought of pruning, just not the reality of it.  Looking back at my life, I can see how pruning preceded times of great fruitfulness.  A few years ago, I had severe pain in my upper back caused by a disc rubbing on my spinal cord.  During the time of seeking various treatments and adjusting to living with pain, I grew in certain aspects of my character that need improvement: my pride took a hit as I reoriented my life; I grew in empathy toward others, especially those experiencing neck and back pain; I trusted God more with my finances; and my prayer life grew as I spent more time than ever praying for others.  Would I have grown like I did in these areas without having my malady?  Probably not.  Pruning was necessary, and God used that time to help me be prepared to bear more fruit.

What about for you?  How might God be pruning you for greater fruitfulness for the glory of Jesus Christ?  It is not comfortable, but it is necessary; and it moves us to greater dependence upon Christ as we obey him in all things and at all times.  Whether you are in a season of pruning or a season of great fruitfulness, remember to remain connected to the vine and draw your sustenance from Christ alone.

“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.” — (John 15:16)

To read more from Michael Medeiros, you can visit his blog: https://mikemedeirosblog.wordpress.com.