Bonsai trees can live hundreds of years, but they need intentional pruning that cuts bad and good for the better. The way of Jesus is a way of pruning, intentionality, and lifelong commitment revealing the value and distinction He makes in this world.
When intentionally cared for, Bonsai trees can live hundreds of years. They are considered by many to be living works of art because of the investment and commitment required to create them.
In order for these trees to thrive and function as they were made to, intentional pruning is required- and the same is with us. In John 15 Jesus shares with His disciples how to cultivate life as His follower. He does this by unpacking the metaphor of the branch life and begins by focusing on the significance of pruning.
Pruning cuts both the bad and the good for the better. And this is the way of Jesus. The way of Jesus is a way of pruning, a way of intentionality, and a way of life-long commitment that reveals the value and distinction Jesus makes in this world.