Union and connection make us disciples of Christ

May 18, Wednesday, Fifth Week of Easter
Daily Readings: Acts 15: 1-6, Psalm 122: 1-5, John 15:1-8

Change our minds and hearts, become a sharing people, and prove to ourselves that we are Jesus' disciples.

"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while he prunes every branch that does bear fruit so that it will be even more fruitful" (J0hn. 15:1-2).

In today’s gospel reading, we find connection and union and being fruitful. Our connection with Jesus is paramount. He is the true vine, and we are the branches. The challenge before us is to prune our life for the better. We need to prune or rectify some aspects of life from our lives to connect better with Jesus and be fruitful. What exactly is this purity or cleanliness?

We have to give up ourselves to unite with others and Jesus. If I think only of myself, I cannot grow up with Jesus. There is no vacancy for selfishness in following Jesus. My desire confines me and prevents me from falling in love with the love of Jesus and for the good of others.

Jesus says, "You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you" (John.15: 3). What are the words of Jesus we have heard when he begins to preach? "The time has come," he said,

"The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news” (Mark. 1:15).
So, we need to change our lives. We can change our lives by prayer, sacrifice (fasting), and almsgiving, and this was the vacation at the beginning of Lent and every day of the Christian life. We know the way to connect and make union with Jesus.

Therefore, let us strengthen our life of sharing with others in faith, charity, and service as disciples of Jesus.