Holy Tuesday: “Stay Connected to the Source” by Dave Roderick
John 15:1-8
I’m an introvert whose primary love language is quality time. I know it is weird, but it makes sense to me when I think about it. It is life-giving when I connect with others. It has to be the right amount of people, like a small group. There is nothing more life-giving than connecting with others in prayer. I love prayer by myself, and I really love prayer with a small group. My favorite prayer is intercession with others.
I think that is why I love this passage of Jesus being the true vine. Go ahead and read John 15:1-8 if you haven’t already. I will wait right here. Prayer for me is connecting with God, the Trinity. When I pray with others, I feel the presence of the Holy Spirit more than when I pray by myself. I hear other people’s thoughts and concerns as they bring them to the Father. It inspires me to pray in ways I wouldn’t think to pray independently.
Jesus shares these words on the night before he died on the cross, the event that made it possible for us to be connected to him. Jesus spoke of many things that night, like sending an advocate. And of being the vine, the source of life in this passage. I like the latter the most. My vision is fueling God’s Mission with prayer because it is his mission. Writers have a role in this mission. We need to stay connected with Jesus to do it well as we help others to connect with Jesus and become more like Him.
Let’s stay here and remember that Jesus does what is needed for us to be connected to Him. This included a cruel death on the cross. If you are honest with yourself, you can name other ways that Jesus has stayed connected with you. As we move through this Holy Week, let’s take time to think deeply about his death and resurrection. It is because of Jesus going to the cross that we can connect.
As writers, we need to be connected to our source. Jesus will do what he does; the question is, are you willing to do what is necessary to stay connected with him? When I write, I pray. When I get stuck, I walk away and pray that God will give me the words he wants me to write. I find it easier to write when I spend time with Jesus. Especially since I want to write what God has called me to write.
What do you need to do to be connected with Jesus? This takes time. Is there an area in your life that needs to be cut off for you to spend time with Jesus? Ask Him to help you. When they are removed, watch the fruit in your life grow and your writing. You and God have great things in store for his kingdom. This is all for His glory.
I’m praying for you because I want to fuel God’s mission with prayer.
About the Author…
Dave Roderick is a follower of Jesus, who loves prayer in all forms. He has been married to his wife, Tina, for almost 25 years and they have one son, Davey. Dave’s ministry is focused on Fueling God’s Mission with Prayer.
Connect with Dave on Facebook and Twitter.
The Christian Authors Network Holy Week Devotional Contest
The Christian Authors Network Holy Week Devotional Contest was created to encourage our group members to use their skills and talents to grow the Kingdom of God. We are so grateful to all of our participants and pray that the Lord would continue to use you in mighty ways. The devotionals in this series are the result of the contest, and we hope that each one blesses you as you reflect on the sacrifice of our Savior during this Holy Week. Thank you again for your participation, and may God continue to richly bless you.