Clinging Vine Uncanny

Yesterday I cut down a vine that had completely overgrown a swinging chain-link gate at our factory.

I was amazed at its extent of growth.

There was one main darkened tap stalk and branches everywhere that ended in tiny tendrils wrapping themselves around the chain link.

By virtue of the heat in the steel and its composition, these tendrils were grey in colour and much harder than plant material.

They looked like the steel. Tough nippers.

Stubbornly they refused to let go.

I was reminded of Jesus’ imagery in the parable of the True Vine in John 15.

Of the life that flows from the tap stalk. Of the uniqueness of this plant.

Of the pruning for its betterment.

Of the cutting off of the portions that would not bear fruit.

Of the good intentions and sovereignty of God as the Husbandman.

Beautiful fruit. Sweet. Colour of Royalty

Purple-red.

Purple for thrones.

Red for bloods.