The Great Pruning: The Fifth Sunday of Easter, by Gayle Somers

On the eve of His death, knowing that He was about to depart from His friends, Jesus said to them:  “Remain in Me, as I remain in you.”  How would that be possible?

Gospel (Read Jn 15:1-8)

Our reading today comes from a section of St. John’s Gospel that is often called “the Last Supper discourse.”   After He washed the disciples’ feet, Jesus spoke at length with them in a most serious manner.  This was straight talk; no more parables.  We should be keenly interested in every word He had to say.

He begins with a dramatic statement:  “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinegrower.”  To the Jewish ears of His apostles, these words brought to life Jesus’ unique identity as both human and divine. …