Remain in me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, neither can you unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me. ~Jesus, John 15:4-5 CSB
Jayme has a smile she does where she crinkles her eyes and keeps her lips together in a small curve. It’s the one she uses when told to smile for the picture. I think it’s my smile she’s mimicking. So sweet. It comes from years of seeing me smile at her.
This passage has the very same idea. Our remaining in him produces his characteristics in us. Time spent together makes us look more alike. And when we smile (or whatever we do), people will see Jesus in the way we do it. So, abide in him. It will change you in wondrous ways. And, you know what I’m gonna say, it will change the world.
Jayme is so sweet. We look forward to seeing you all again soon. – Tom
Oh, what a beautiful little girl she is, Patty! God has blessed you most richly.
We are very blessed.
What a simple and compelling, and dare I say, “world changing” concept you wrapped in this little snapshot of life, Patty. Thank you for both the encouragement and the challenge that lingers way beyond the time it took to read it. May God bless you for sharing the way Jesus smiles at us through you today.
Thank you for your encouraging words.