There is a scene in the movie "Shadow of the Hawk" here a young couple is climbing a mountain with the help of a guide, in a desperate attempt to flee from evil people. At one point, the young woman slumps to the ground and says, “I can’t take another step.” The young man lifts her to her feet and says, “But darling, we must go on. We have no other choice!”
"I can’t go on! I can’t go on!", the woman continued. Then the guide advises the young man, "Hold her close to your heart. Let your strength and your courage flow out of your body into hers." The young man does this, and in a few minutes, the woman smiles and says:
"Now I can go on! Now I can do it!"
By telling us the parable of the vine and branches in today’s gospel, Jesus wants to share His divine strength with us.
The parable reminds us that true discipleship requires staying close to the vine; close to Jesus; allowing His life to flow through us. Staying united with Jesus, we can do anything! But separated from Him, we are lost.
How can individuals and families remain connected with Jesus? How do we remain true to Him?
We remain connected with Him by praying together as a family and as individuals.
We remain true to Him by accepting his will, obeying His commands, and pruning off the things in our lives that are keeping us separated from Christ.
True Christian discipleship demands action, not mere intention. If you do God’s will, he will make sure that you become the tree producing rich fruit.
Today Jesus is inviting you and me to show our good intentions with our actions. If you intend to forgive your spouse or family member, do it now. If you intend to reconcile with someone in your life, do it now.
If you intend to be charitable, do it now. If you intend to give up an addiction, do it now. If you intend to help someone, do it now.
Do one intention at a time, and you will become fruit-producing disciples!
Let us remain close to Jesus and allow his life to flow through us.
- Father Pinto's inspirational homily was recorded live this morning during Mass at the Father Peyton Center. Please view the video on our Facebook page. (You don't need a Facebook account to view.)
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.jpg "Father Pinto Paul, C.S.C.")