Drawing Closer

Imagine a tree and a bicycle wheel.

The new growth on the tree grows further from roots of the tree every year. Still connected, still gaining nutrition from the roots, the term “branching out” describes the new moving away from the old. It isn’t planned, measured, or intentional.

The spokes on the wheel are closer to each other on the inner end and separated from each other on the outer end. It is by design, and must be balanced to work.

Our relationships are like the tree if we allow them to run the course of unplanned nature. They are only like the inner end of the spokes by design and purpose and work. Our relationship with Jesus has the same dynamics. We gain our life from Him, but only if we are disciplined do we draw near to Him, and as He said, remain in Him. The same type of discipline can draw us closer to each other.

“I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me. If anyone does not remain in Me, he is thrown aside like a branch and he withers. They gather them, throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask whatever you want and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this: that you produce much fruit and prove to be My disciples.”
(John 15:5-8 HCSB ©®)