JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Light Reflection is from John 15:5.

Jesus identified Himself by “I Am” statements, which are recorded for us in the Gospel of John. These statements open our eyes to the reality of who Jesus is and what He is able to accomplish on our behalf.

As Jesus was walking with His disciples in a garden, He said to them in John 15:5:

“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.”

Here we see that a productive faith flows out of an intimate relationship with Jesus. How can we stay connected with Jesus every day?

One way is through prayer. Ongoing communication builds thriving relationships. Prayer is how we have a conversation with God. Another way is by reading the Bible, which is God’s inspired word given to us. That is where God shows us how to live a life that pleases Him.

This Light Reflection inspires us to remain in Jesus and bear much fruit in the Year to Shine.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Wisdom from the Red Letters is found in John 15:8.

Jesus told His followers: “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”

This is a good focus point for 2019, to glorify God with a fruitful witness for Jesus.

The key to being successful in this endeavor is to stay connected to Jesus. He said in John 15:5, “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.”

With Jesus, we have a strong and vibrant testimony. Without Him, we are helpless.

The words of Jesus inspire us to stay close to Jesus and bear fruit for God’s glory in the Year of Redemption.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com