Let go of old self

EASTERTIDE SPIRITUAL DIET: Acts 15:1-6, Jn 15:1-8. Though letting go of painful experiences can be helpful to spiritual growth, it is nevertheless very difficult to do. Such experiences lead us to a new relationship with God and with others. In today’s first reading, Paul and Barnabas enjoins the people to let go of old practice of circumcision. Thus, in today’s Gospel Jesus uses the imagery of a vine dresser pruning the branches so that more abundant fruit can be produced.

God gives growth to those who seek atonement with Him. We can never “make up” for our sinfulness, but we can seek “At-One-ment,” which involve letting go of the old and being attached more fully to what is life-giving. Today, we are called to be “At One” with God. When Jesus used the imagery of pruning, He suggested that in various ways God prunes our lives to make them more fruitful than they presently are. There are some things we may need to shed off if we are to become all that God is calling us to be. As branches of His Vine He remains in us and we must remain with Him to bear fruit.

May the Lord who makes His home in us sustain us in difficult moments and lead us through the painful experience of pruning into a new and more fruitful life! Amen!! Have a terrific day!!!