2. I am the True Vine—

John 15:1 (NRSV) — 1a “I am the true vine, …

When Jesus says: "I am the true Vine," He tells us that all the vines of earth are images and symbols of Himself. He is the Divine Reality, of which they are the created expression. They all point to Him, and preach Him, and reveal Him. If you would know Jesus, study the vine.

All earthly things are the figures and shadows of heavenly realities—heavenly Truths. These are indeed expressions of the invisible glory of God. We have all gazed in admiration at fruitful vines of many varieties—wisteria, pumpkins, clematis, passionfruit … the list is endless.

Today I invite you to come and gaze on the Heavenly Vine until your eye turns away from all else to admire Him. Come and be still under the shadow of the true Vine, and rest under it from the heat of the day. Come, take and eat of the heavenly fruit of the true Vine, and let your soul say: "I sat under His Shadow with great delight, and His Fruit was sweet to my taste."

Psalm 34:8 (NRSV) O taste and see that the Lord is good; 

happy are those who take refuge in him.