May for me means springtime gardening. Growing up one of six children, we spent much time gardening. My mother could plant anything and make it grow. My father knew the names of all the plants, and would test me to make sure I knew too. I learned how to plant anything from grass to vegetables to flowers. As an adult, I still love to garden and this time of the year there is much to do. I love teaching my daughters how to make plants grow. My husband and I have even been working to raise and replant a lawn. This is the time of the year that is perfect for new growth.
Listening to the priest at mass today, he spoke about how John’s Gospel focuses on the image of the vine and branches. “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower…You are already pruned because of the word that I spoke to you. 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. I am the vine, you are the branches.” It symbolizes the type of relationship that Jesus wants to have with those who follow him.
It made me envision the grape vine in my backyard. It is amazing how during the winter months, it looks dead. But come springtime, the buds start to form. By summer, the vines are green and curling through the fence looking to spread further. The grapes come at the end of summer. It made me think to compare it to my faith. There are times where my faith looks almost dead, but it’s not. I am sure all of us have had a hard year. But our branches can weather the winter and flourish again. Let us plant the seeds, love, and remain in the vine. God Bless.