Where We Want to Go

1-23-22Sermon Notes“Where We Want to Go”
Vineyards played a major role in the culture of Israel (they still do). Vineyards in choice locations were highly prized. The owners spent a lot of time taking care of the vineyards. They would build walls around them - with guards and watchtowers. Sometimes, vineyards are utilized teach spiritual truths in the Bible. For instance, Jesus used a vineyard to teach his final lesson to his disciples. His final lesson… So, how important must that lesson be?
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. 2 He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more fruit. 3 You have already been cleansed by the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. 5 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: 1-5 NRSV)
This month we have been talking about integrity of the heart. We have looked at how important it is to be authentically who we claim to be: The People of GFUMC: Changing lives by sharing Christ, making disciples, serving and giving hope. On the second Sunday, we looked at what we want to become… followers and fishers - that is, followers of Jesus (disciples) who produce other followers of Jesus. This last Sunday, we looked at what we want to do. What’s the main thing? “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength…and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” This is our business. It’s why we are here.
This Sunday, we will look at where we want to go. If we don’t know where we want to go, how will we know when we are making progress, or when we get off track?
See you Sunday!
Pastor Sam