Dear OLA Parish Family,

 

Jesus used the image of a gardener pruning the non-fruit-bearing branches from a vine to conserve the plant’s strength so that it produces good fruit. Vines characteristically bear two types of branches – those that produce fruit and those that do not. This image illustrates the kind of life Jesus produces in those who are united with Him – the fruit of a righteous person is peace and joy. Religious affiliation or association with spiritually minded people is not enough—one must be rooted firmly in God the Father and His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. Through Jesus Christ, we can fully unite in the “vineyard of the Lord.”

Here is the simple truth: we are either fruit-bearing or non-fruit-bearing. There is no in-between. The bearing of healthy fruit requires drastic pruning. When Jesus calls Himself the true vine, He makes clear that no one can grow in holiness and integrity unless they are rooted in God’s life-giving word. Jesus promises that we will bear much fruit if we abide in Him and allow Him to purify us. Only when firmly grafted into the true vine, Jesus Christ, can we receive spiritual nourishment to bloom and flourish with holiness, peace, and joy.

 

Have a blessed day.

Yours in Christ,

Father Edward Domme