One day last week when I came home from work I noticed a branch in one of the trees in the backyard. All the other branches except for this one were green and vibrant. From a distance it appeared that this single dead branch was still connected to a life giving source. Upon examining it closer, it had a slight bend, but it was enough to cut off the source of the life giving nutrients it needed from the tree.
It was an odd sight and a reality check at the same time. This dead branch was among all the other branches that were full of life. John 15:5-6 reminds us that Jesus is the vine and we are the branches and if we abide in Him we shall bring forth an abundance of fruit. However, if we abide without Him we will wither and be separated from the one who gives life.
A problem all too common in today's society are all those people who say they are connected to the source but instead are dead branches within the body of Christ. It usually starts with a slight bend and eventually the branch will completely snap from the weight of the sin in our lives. This bend and or breakage can also be a result of disobedience or unforgiveness we are harboring in our hearts.
Are you connected to the source or are you a dead branch masquerading among those full of life and bearing abundant fruit? Going to church and reading your Bible isn't enough, you must have a relationship with Him! Examine your life to see what is cutting you off from having God's best. Repenting is not a "one-time deal". You must be sorrowful and ask for forgiveness when you allow anything to keep you from abiding with the Master. It's simple, seek the source, long for the source, thirst for the source, know the source, hear the source and finally RESPOND to the source. He is waiting.
