The song “People” by Barbra Streisand relates the importance of being connected to others.

People who need people,
Are the luckiest people in the world
We’re children, needing other children
And yet letting a grown-up pride
Hide all the need inside
Acting more like children than children

There’s nothing like feeling connected.  When we’re born, our first glimpse of mom gives us peace.  As we go through life, we find joy in being part of a team.  When we’re older, it’s important to be able to bring something to the workplace that will add to the performance and success of that business.  When our tired old bodies feel useless, it’s good to receive a friendly hug or smile from someone.  We are not born to be alone.  

“It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make him a helper suitable for him.” 

During the last days of His ministry, Jesus assured His disciples with these wonderful words of promise.  “I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener.”  This is a word picture of how we’re interlocked with our God and Savior.  He refers to Himself as the vine – the sturdy base of the plant that supplies life to the fruit.  His Father tends to it and makes certain that the bad stuff is cut off from the good.

I love this imagery.  The vines of this world can tangle us up, choke us and devour us.  Weeds get into our world and corrupt it, infect it and bring about its death.  The true vine, Jesus, gives us eternal life – and even nourishes us here on earth preparing us for our days in heaven.

Thank you, Holy Father, for giving us your intermediary, Jesus.  Through Him we have a perfect connection to You.  Amen!