Pastor Tom reminded us that just as branches must remain connected to the vine to thrive, we must remain connected to Christ to truly live. He shared a powerful story of rescue — when a little girl fell overboard on a cruise ship, her father jumped in and kept her alive until help came. In the same way, even when we feel like we are lost or dead inside, Jesus is the true vine who sustains us, rescues us, and gives us life.

Jesus’ words echo with love: “As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you.” In Him, we find strength, purpose, and the assurance that our lives are held securely in His hands.

Isaiah 55:8–9 (NIV)
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord.
“As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

John 15:1 (NIV)
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.”

John 15:5 (NIV)
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

John 15:9 (NIV)
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.”