“He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit: “Every branch that bears fruit he prunes” (John 15:2, NRSV).

 

This passage from John’s gospel has created a bit of angst for many readers over the years. The impression is that, like a gardener, God will lop off every Christian who fails to produce an acceptable yield of good works, then throw that person onto the trash heap.

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“But I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father” (John 14:21, NRSV).

 

     This particular passage in John’s gospel is the most complete biblical explanation we have of the Holy Trinity. The close relationship that Jesus describes between himself, the Father, and the Holy Spirit is reminiscent of the Three Musketeers’ mantra—“One for all and all for one.” The love the members of the Trinity have for one another is strong. They have a singular purpose. They share the same hopes and dreams. Their hearts beat as one.

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“[My people] insist on turning away from me. They will cry out because of the yoke that is on them, but no one will lift it from them. “How can I give you up, Israel?  How can I abandon you…My heart will not let me do it! My love for you is too strong.”  (Hosea 11:7-8, GNT).

 

     I grew up with a wiener dog named Frank. (An ironic name, don’t you think?) In his younger days, Frank liked to run away from home. Being the oldest child, I was tasked with catching him. I grew tired of Frank’s departures to the point that I threw up my hands in disgust and shouted, “Good riddance!” A very wise neighbor overheard my exclamation and asked me why I was so upset. I told Mr. Hannus that I never wanted to see that ungrateful dog again. To which he replied, “Son, you don’t stop loving someone just because they lack the sense to love you back.”

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“Be subject to one another in the fear of Christ” (Ephesians 5:21, NASB)

 

Fear is one of humanity’s greatest gifts. Fear is also humanity’s greatest struggle. Fear is necessary to alert us when danger presents itself. Fear jump-starts adrenal activity to help our body move away quickly from potential harm.

 

Extended periods of fear, however, can do great damage to both our bodies and minds. Fear leads to hypertension, heart disease, and conditions such as post-traumatic stress. Fear is a double agent, bringing about both good and bad.

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“…for all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Luke 18:14, NIV).

 

     Several years ago, I visited the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility in Lucasville, Ohio. I was part of a team that participated in a ministry conference within the prison walls. I recall doctors, teachers, businessmen, and pastors sitting and praying side-by-side with robbers, rapists, and murderers.

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