The Vinedresser

The vinedresser prunes and ties the vine to the wire in order that it will bear more fruit (John 15:1,2).
It seems like it is all loss and restriction but there is purpose in God’s process. The energy of the vine is concentrated in creating fewer shoots and flowers but with greater resources available in order to produce bigger grape clusters. In Spanish the stake to which a plant tied is called a tutor. The stakes and wires hold the fruit so it won’t fall and be damaged or rot. It reminds me of the cross that held our Saviour and which we are commanded to daily carry. Here we see the vinedresser using reeds to bind the vine. On the cross He used nails. Bearing fruit is a painful process.
(Painting 9 x 12 inches in oil pastel by J H Klaas)

Returned safe and sound from Argentina. THANKS FOR YOUR PRAYER. MissionFest this weekend in Toronto. Please pray for my workshop on “Would you like to help mobilize a million disciples?”. I am asking for 5 churches to become interested in mobilizing labourers.