Dwelling With God

“I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5, NRSV)

This month, many of our diocesan youth, including three of our own youths, went on a mission and service trip to Ecuador. It was truly a life-changing experience, and I was so proud to see how our youth grew, led, and drew closer to God together.

It was amazing to see Quito, walk along the equator, try delicious Ecuadorian food (including the best chocolate I have ever had), and pray in the Andes mountains—but my favorite part of the experience was getting to meet the amazing brothers and sisters in Christ of Misión El Salvador in the city of Ambato, with whom we spent about half our time.

Every night during our devotions, we asked the youth to reflect on a different portion of John 15, focusing especially on what it means to “dwell” in and with God. The meaning of this idea was brought alive by spending time with these new friends. The sincerity of their worship, the warmth of their welcome, and the love they showed to us displayed how clearly Jesus was among them.

Jesus says, “I am the vine, and you are the branches.” Every time we see more branches, we see more of Jesus. Dwelling with the people of Ecuador showed us more of Jesus than we had seen before and helped us to open up, to be vulnerable, to “dwell” more deeply with God. I am so grateful to have had this experience with our youth!

In your life, what “branches” do you see that give you a better view of the Vine? Who in your life helps you to dwell with God?

Blessings,

Rev. Jacob Robling