“Father Make Me A Fruitful Branch To Your Glory!”

“Father Make Me A Fruitful Branch To Your Glory!”
Yesterday we said a line of caution should be drawn when we interpret Jesus’ words that “You may ask anything in my name, and I will do it.” Today Jesus again says, “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given to you.” A human being once said, “Ask me for anything you want, and I’ll give it to you.” He said this out of the influence of alcohol and lust, he made the promise with an oath. And this is how John the Baptist was beheaded(Mk.6:14-29).
On his part Jesus is not addressing a secular community; he is addressing us who constitute the Church, his body. He is the vine, we are the branches and his Father is the gardener.
Within that body are branches that do not bear fruit. Such will be cut off to become fodder for fire!
Then there are those who bear fruit. These are the ones who can ask him for whatever they wish and their request will be granted. They are like branches that already bear fruit in that they are already clean because of the word. However they must also bear the sharp pruning knife of the gardener – that is they have allowed the Holy Spirit free them from looking at vanities and to fix their eyes heavenward. After pruning they become even more fruitful.
This means they must remain in Christ Jesus and his words remain in them. Because apart from Christ they can do nothing. The Holy Spirit guides them so that they cannot even ask what is not in line with the Father’s wish.
It is to the Father’s glory that they bear much fruit and show the world that they are the disciples of Jesus Christ the Lord and Master (Jn.15:1-8).
Dear friend, let us surrender ourselves to him who prunes us and makes us fruitful in his service.
Prayer: Father prune me to bear much fruit to your glory. Holy Spirit lead me to remain in Christ Jesus and his words to remain in me. Amen!
Have a blessed day! Peace be with you!