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### Day 1: The Necessity of Pruning

In John 15, Jesus uses the metaphor of the vine and branches to illustrate the importance of spiritual pruning. Just as a vine must be pruned to bear more fruit, we too must undergo a process of removing aspects of our lives that do not honor God. This pruning is not about cutting people off but about eliminating behaviors, attitudes, and habits that hinder our spiritual growth. It is a communal and personal process that helps us align more closely with God's will and purpose for our lives. Pruning can be painful, but it is necessary for us to flourish and bear the fruit of the Spirit.

This process of pruning is a reflection of God's love and care for us. He desires for us to grow and thrive, and sometimes that means removing things that are detrimental to our spiritual health. As we submit to this process, we become more like Christ and are better able to serve others and fulfill our mission. Embracing pruning allows us to experience the abundant life that Jesus promises and to be more effective in our witness to the world. [32:30]

John 15:2 (ESV): "Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit."

Reflection: What is one area of your life that you feel God is calling you to prune? How can you begin to remove this hindrance to your spiritual growth today?


### Day 2: Inclusivity in Christ

The love that God has for Jesus is the same love that Jesus has for us. This profound truth calls us to be inclusive and affirming, breaking down barriers that divide us. Our mission is to reflect this Trinitarian love in our relationships and communities, fostering unity and healing. Inclusivity in Christ means welcoming and accepting everyone, regardless of their background, status, or identity. It is about creating a community where everyone feels valued and loved.

Inclusivity is not just about acceptance but also about actively working to remove the barriers that prevent people from experiencing God's love. This involves challenging societal and denominational barriers that exclude people and advocating for justice and equality. By reflecting God's inclusive love, we can create a community that embodies the heart of the gospel and invites everyone into a transformative relationship with Jesus. [35:38]

Galatians 3:28 (ESV): "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Reflection: Think of someone who feels excluded or marginalized in your community. How can you reach out to them and show them the inclusive love of Christ today?


### Day 3: Living Out Love

Love is not just a sentiment but a call to action. It involves kindness, compassion, and forgiveness, as Christ commands. This love has the power to transform lives and communities, setting people free from oppression and bringing about justice and healing. Living out love means actively seeking ways to serve others and to demonstrate God's love in practical ways. It is about being the hands and feet of Jesus in a broken world.

Living out love requires us to go beyond our comfort zones and to be intentional in our actions. It means being willing to sacrifice our time, resources, and energy for the sake of others. As we live out love, we become a reflection of Christ's love to the world, and we can make a significant impact in the lives of those around us. [46:54]

1 John 3:18 (ESV): "Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth."

Reflection: What is one practical way you can show love to someone in need today? How can you make this a regular part of your life?


### Day 4: The Power of Connection

Our connection to Jesus, the true vine, is essential for our spiritual vitality. Without this connection, we cannot bear fruit or experience the abundant life that Jesus promises. This connection also binds us to one another, creating a community that reflects God's love to the world. Being connected to Jesus means abiding in Him, spending time in His presence, and allowing His Word to shape our lives.

This connection is not just about individual spirituality but also about being part of a larger community of believers. As we remain connected to Jesus, we are also connected to each other, and we can support and encourage one another in our faith journey. This communal aspect of our connection to Jesus is vital for our growth and for fulfilling our mission to make disciples of all nations. [35:01]

John 15:5 (ESV): "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."

Reflection: How can you strengthen your connection to Jesus today? What steps can you take to deepen your relationship with Him and with your faith community?


### Day 5: The Open Table

The table of communion is a powerful symbol of Christ's inclusive love. It is open to all, regardless of background, status, or identity. This openness reflects the heart of the gospel, inviting everyone into a transformative relationship with Jesus and with each other. The open table is a reminder that God's love is for everyone and that we are all welcome in His presence.

Participating in communion is a way of experiencing and celebrating this inclusive love. It is a time to remember Christ's sacrifice and to reflect on the unity we have in Him. The open table challenges us to extend this same love and welcome to others, breaking down barriers and creating a community where everyone feels valued and loved. [58:32]

1 Corinthians 10:17 (ESV): "Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread."

Reflection: How can you extend the inclusive love of Christ to someone who feels unwelcome or excluded? What steps can you take to create a more inclusive and loving community?