This chapter continues “the day of the Lord” (the day of judgement) theme we’ve been following. It prophesies about the coming redemption of Israel the people (not just the geographic region) and their spiritual descendants (not just their blood relatives).
” ‘A pleasant vineyard, sing of it! I, the Lord, am its keeper; every moment I water it. Lest anyone punish it, I keep it night and day; I have no wrath… let them lay hold of my protection… let them make peace with me.’ In days to come Jacob shall take root, Israel shall blossom and put forth shoots and fill the whole world with fruit.” (v2b-6 abr)
The Lord our God is the keeper of the vineyard, Jesus Himself is the Vine, and we His people are the branches (see Jn 15:1-11). Isn’t this a beautiful picture? We are tended by God Himself, we are extensions of Jesus our vine, and we bear righteous fruit when we’re rooted in Him. That fruit, which originated with the blood descendants of Israel, put forth shoots and rooted within us, the spiritual descendants of Israel.
This analogy is quite clear – our ongoing mission is to continue partnering with Jesus and the Holy Spirit to grow and share this righteous, spiritual fruit. When we share this fruit with the world, it spreads Jesus’ kingdom and influence further (sends forth more shoots).
The Holy Spirit within us, which grows great fruit (Gal 5:22-23) longs to share it with everyone. Unlike worldly resources which deplete, God’s fruit increases as we share it with others. The more people who receive it, the more the fruit grows and spreads. Let’s exude spiritual fruit in every interaction, and see just how sweet and bountiful God’s fruit (His blessing) will become.
Father God, our Loving and Steadfast Lord, Your care and provision are truly abundant. Thank you for attentively watching over us, nurturing us, and giving us everything we need in order to flourish spiritually. May we embrace that provision and share it with our neighbors, paying forward the blessings we have received. May we never tire of righteous behavior and loving those whom You love. May we do these things in the name of Jesus, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training