What’s implied when we believe in and speak in the name of Jesus? Do Christ’s “words remain in you”? Do you “love not in word or speech but in deed and truth”?

We can take responsibility for our own personal deadwood. The word of Christ does the pruning, if we present ourselves fearlessly for the task. 

I am the Real Vine and my Father is the Farmer. He cuts off every branch of me that doesn’t bear grapes. And every branch that is grape-bearing he prunes back so it will bear even more.

Just as Saint Paul advised, my grandfather, a man of few words, lived in deed and truth. May we all find a way to do the same.

As we continue on our Easter journey, we ask for new life in God.

Jesus “remains” in us and we in him, and the presence of his Spirit bears fruit in love.

Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. —Mother Teresa (1910-1977)