"Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me." (John 15: 4)

Jesus invites us to abide in Him, just as He abides in us. We are shaped and formed by those with whom we abide in, and by those who abide in us. Relationships always bear fruit of some kind. Jesus knew this well.

When I was a student in seminary, I started a men's Bible study using the Lectio Divina (Sacred Reading) method. This is an ancient prayer and meditation form that was known and practiced by the Hebrews. I invite you to use the lectionary passage, John 15: 1-8 (for Sunday, May 18th), follow the simple instructions below, and ask the Holy Spirit to help you in hearing the word.

Read the passage slowly. Savor the words as you read, just as you would enjoy a fine wine or meal. Pause when a word or phrase draws your attention in some way.

Meditate on a word or phrase. Allow its content to sink into your own understanding. Take notice as the Holy Spirit takes this word or phrase into the various facets of your life. Be receptive.

Respond to God in prayer. Speak to God what you are noticing; voice your response. Be at rest in the presence of God.

Hope you will give this a try. Our willingness for God's insight and guidance will nourish and shape our life for healthy and productive living. Carry the word or phrase you are given with you from morning 'till night, returning to it during the interludes of your day. As we learn to "live into" the invitation of Jesus: "abide in me as I abide in you", both as individuals and as a church, we will grow, strengthen our connection, and be fruitful.

Moving Ahead in Christ

+Pastor Dan


Previous Pastor's Pages

• Spring, 2003
• Winter, 2002
• Fall, 2002