It is important that we define each of the players in this parable Jesus gives His disciples as He prepares to make His final sacrifice on the Cross. Mr Wilkinson points out that, this last teaching of Jesus is of vital importance and to be greatly treasured, intensely studied and daily applied, just like the words of a loved one on his deathbed would be precious to us. Here Jesus talks about the Vineyard. First, He states, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.” (Jn 15:1)
So what does it mean that Jesus is the True Vine? Let’s think about what the vine does in a worldly vineyard. The vine Jesus refers to is not a sprawling branch. He is pointing us to the trunk of the grapevine. It is this Vine where all the branches are attached, in order to live and bear fruit. And it is also this Vine that is attached to the ground, providing all the nutrients we need to live and bear fruit. This can show us two things: 1- it is symbolic for the fact that Jesus came down to earth, planted by the Father, so that Jesus would offer life and help us bear fruit. 2- this Vine spreads its roots to keep the branches steady and safe as they live and bear fruit. Even though Jesus does not mention it, I see those roots as the Holy Spirit who grounded Him, and now with Jesus, guides us as well. Jesus is the True Vine. Apart from Him, there are no branches, no life and no fruit to be had.
Then there is the Vinedresser. God, the Father, is the Planter and the Planner. Once Jesus was planted and opened the door for Eternal Life, God began growing branches from this True Vine. It started with the Jewish believers and is still growing out from there. More on these branches tomorrow. What I want us to understand, and appreciate, is the Father’s incredible, loving skill at drawing us near to Him, then helping us grow into who He always desired us to be. Mr Wilkinson says, “The vinedresser’s task is simple – two coax from his plants the most pounds of grapes possible.” (p19) Or in other words, God wants us to be more and more like Him so that we may experience, more and more, of this Abundant Life He has given us.
Note I continually said above that the True Vine gives us life and the ability to bear fruit. This bearing fruit is the way you and I can enjoy the most fulfilling life here, before we go to Heaven. And it is the Vinedresser’s main focus for many reasons…more tomorrow…
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The First & Best Book Ever: The Bible
February: Love Is In the Air: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
March: Spring Growth: “Secrets of the Vine” by Bruce Wilkinson
<>< Peace, Diane
