The Duty of Discipleship — Your Weekly Reflection from CMMB
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Today’s reading comes from chapter 15 of John’s Gospel. In this chapter, the disciples are gathered at the Last Supper and Jesus tasks them with continuing his work after he has died.
In the portion we read from today, we hear the parable of the vine and the branches. A reference to the Hebrew Scriptures, Jesus reveals that even in death, his relationship with the disciples will continue.
In the metaphor, Jesus is the vine and his Father is the vine grower. The disciples are the branches, pruned by the Father so they may flourish with even more fruit.
Jesus says, “Remain in me, as I remain in you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit on its own unless it remains on the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me.”
From this passage we learn that it’s Jesus’ relationship with the disciples that gives them the strength to continue his work.
The same can be said about our own relationship with Jesus. We learn about him through the scriptures and strengthen our faith through church and the Eucharist.
Jesus is one of the most powerful presences in our life. He guides our decisions and compels us into action. When those actions are done on behalf of others, we fulfill our duty as disciples and pave the way for more branches to fruit on Jesus’ vine.
CMMB’s international volunteers dedicate their lives discipleship. But when COVID-19 struck, they were forced to reimagine their duty and find innovative ways to continue serving those in need. Though it remains a challenge every step of the way, CMMB is proud to support their solutions and witness their successes.
We will conclude this week’s reflection with the words of longtime volunteer Sarah Rubino, whose second volunteer term in South Sudan was cut short due to the pandemic. We hope her words inspire you to continue following in Jesus’ footsteps, no matter the challenges you encounter.
This last year has been far from what we all expected or envisioned it to be. As we offer up our sufferings and let go of the anxiety of holding onto things that are out of our control, let us all continue to work hard with what we have and be willing to do all that we are able.
If you’re interested in reading more of Sarah’s reflection, you can do so on our blog by clicking HERE.
In grace and peace,
CMMB