Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you,
you will bear much fruit; apart from me,
you can do nothing.” (John 15:4-5) 
 

John 15:1-8

Jesus deepens this theme of the necessity of abiding in him. If we are connected to the Lord, we find life. If we are disconnected from him, we wither.

Let’s take a moment to remember our experiences of withering. Think back to those times in your lives when you felt dry, listless, un-energised, depressed, or anxious. What were the circumstances of these “witherings”? What led to them? Was it a time of disconnection from God? Or perhaps you were doing your best to be close to him? How did it feel? What was your response?

What were the fruits of these moments of withering? Did they help you to let go of something? Perhaps they purified your image of God? Possibly, they renewed your commitment to God?

I am consoled that these verses promise not only withering and purification but also abiding and a renewed relationship with the Lord.

Reflections by Sean van Staden SJ

Lord,
There are moments in our lives when we feel distant 

and disconnected from you. It is like we wither way. 

Help us to understand these moments and renew our relationship with you. 
Amen.

Visit our website