Wednesday, May 21, 2025  

Today's Scripture
John 15:1–11

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you. 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. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask for whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit and become my disciples.

As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.” (NRSV)

Reflection

“Abide with me: fast falls the eventide;
the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.
When other helpers fail and comforts flee, 
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.”  

I’ve read Jesus’ lengthy “farewell speech” many times and always focused on the memorable image of Jesus as the true vine. Today I immediately focused on Jesus’ invitation to abide with him, and I’m finding comfort in this offer.  

We recently heard the hymn “Abide with Me” at the memorial service of a dear church member, and so I am reminded that to abide with Jesus is to dwell with him — certainly for eternity and also right now or whenever we are lonely or frightened.  

But to “abide” means even more: it describes a willingness to act a certain way (“abide” by the rules) or a memory that remains without fading (faith, hope, and love “abide” as 1 Corinthians 13 is sometimes translated). I wonder if Jesus had these multiple meanings in mind as he implored his dearest followers to continue living in his way. As he gave them a new commandment — to love one another as he had loved them — perhaps he hoped the memory of this night would remain with them, so that they would continue to follow his rule of love.  

Jesus’ invitation extends to us, as well. The best way for our lives to bear fruit is to dwell in Jesus and his love.  

Prayer
Holy God, “abide with me; fast falls the eventide. The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide. When other helpers fail and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me.” Amen. 

Reflection written by Amy Pagliarella, Parish Associate for Caring Ministries

Reflection © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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