The Vine, The Branches

Inspired by my online devo I am setting a couple goals:
1. Stay connected to the vine. (John 15)
- God is the gardener. Gotta let him prune when necessary; and nourish daily. If I remain in him, he will remain in me, and my life will bear fruit. If I cut myself off, I won't see any good fruit come out of my life or ministry. I'll dry up and be good for nothing.
2. Stay mingled with the branches.
- I need to remember to stay in fellowship with others - for encouragement, for challenge, for support. 'Love each other' (v.17 ) implies that we stay connected. I need to make calls, make an effort to check up on people, make an effort to be vulnerable about my struggles.
Funny that it seems #1 may be easier than #2. But both are imperative. 'No branch can bear fruit by itself' (v.4) isn't just about having some time alone with God. 'Remain in me' means worshiping with my life, but also serving with others; praying alone and together; meditating solo and also carrying each others burdens.
It's about camaraderie, both vertical and horizontal. And either one, without the other, misses the point.