Remain in Me: Unity, Grace, and the Fruit of Faith
In today’s readings, the Church is invited to reflect deeply on what it means to remain in Christ and to be united in His grace, not divided by burdens of law or custom.
The Struggle for Unity in the Early Church
Acts 15 recounts a moment of serious tension: a dispute arises over whether Gentile converts must be circumcised according to the Mosaic law to be saved. Paul and Barnabas, passionate defenders of the gospel of grace, travel to Jerusalem to consult with the Apostles and elders. This gathering foreshadows the first Church council, emphasizing a foundational truth — that salvation is not earned through external practices, but received through faith in Jesus Christ.
Their journey is not marked by division, but by joy. As they pass through Phoenicia and Samaria, they share the good news of Gentile conversions, and “brought great joy to all the brethren.” The Church’s mission is rooted in spreading joy, not burdens — in witnessing to the work of God, not enforcing human expectations.
I Am the Vine, You Are the Branches
In the Gospel of John, Jesus offers a profound image of relationship: “I am the vine, you are the branches.” This is not a metaphor of mere connection, but of life and fruitfulness. The life of the disciple is one of remaining — a constant, living union with Christ. To remain in Him is to be nourished by His Word, to grow in grace, and to bear fruit for the glory of the Father.
Jesus also speaks of pruning. Just as a vine grower prunes fruitful branches to help them grow even more, so too are we refined by trials, discipline, and truth. This pruning may be painful, but it is not punishment — it is the love of the Father making us more fully alive in Christ.
Grace, Not Law
Today’s readings converge on this: salvation comes through remaining in Christ, not through the imposition of religious customs. While tradition and discipline have their place, they must never become substitutes for grace. The Church is not called to enforce exclusion but to proclaim inclusion — not to bind others with rules, but to free them with the gospel.
A Call to Remain
“Without me you can do nothing,” Jesus says. These words are both humbling and liberating. Our fruitfulness does not depend on our own strength, but on our intimacy with Him. When we remain in Him — through prayer, sacrament, obedience, and love — our lives bear witness to His glory.
Today, may we commit to remaining in Christ. May we be branches alive with the life of the vine. And may our lives bear fruit — not of law, but of love.
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Did You Pray Today?
Daily prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your faith, find peace, and invite God’s presence into your life. Even a few moments of prayer can bring clarity, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are starting your day, taking a break, or preparing for sleep, these short yet meaningful prayers help you stay connected to God.
Take a moment now to pray:
The Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Our Father (The Lord’s Prayer)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
A Daily Habit of Prayer: These prayers take less than a minute, yet they bring us closer to God each day. Keep prayer at the center of your life and experience His love and guidance.
Walking in Faith, Growing in Grace
Every day is an opportunity to draw closer to God. In prayer, in scripture, and in the moments of stillness, He speaks to our hearts. Faith is not just about knowing—it’s about living, trusting, and walking in His light.
Through life’s joys and challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, to seek Him in all things, and to reflect His love in our words and actions. Even the smallest acts of faith— a whispered prayer, a kind word, a moment of gratitude— bring us deeper into His presence.
May this space be a source of encouragement, reflection, and renewal for you. Wherever you are on your journey, know that God is with you. Keep the faith, stay rooted in prayer, and continue seeking His truth.