John 15:5 – 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. (NIV 2011)

How often do we experience this "abiding" that Jesus referred to in today's Scripture? Surely at some time, we would have felt that we and the Lord God were in close fellowship — a wonderful, sacred moment. We believe that the Lord set up a special meal with bread and wine for His followers to experience such closeness "in remembrance of Him". So it is possible for us to experience Jesus' presence in such a wonderful holy moment. Do you know what I am talking about — a personal time apart with Christ? Some people call it the Eucharist, communion, the Divine Liturgy, or the Lord's Supper.

On July 20, 1969, there was such a sacred moment on the moon! Buzz Aldrin, one of the two astronauts on board, had a communion set with him, a gift from his minister, and he celebrated communion on landing on the moon. Wow! Bread and wine was the first food eaten on the moon, and it was done in remembrance of Jesus Christ and what He had suffered when on earth.

What does communion mean to you and me? We all celebrate it differently with many deep feelings, thinking of all that Jesus did for us — His teachings, His crucifixion, and His resurrection power. It has all had a tremendous effect on us, and it has affected thousands over the centuries ever since His resurrection. We are participating with great humility in a holy act that stretches back over thousands of years. We feel Jesus' presence in many ways as we commune with Him now today.

All acts of communion with Jesus remind us of the wonderful, spiritual connection we have with Jesus when we abide in Him. "I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever abides in me will bring forth much fruit." This is a very close connection with Jesus, a connection as close as a branch on the vine, and it is a connection that results in much fruit.

If we are feeling empty and useless today, let's go back in our mind and soul to the last time we felt near to the Lord, and ask Jesus to fill us with His presence now, for He never leaves those who receive Him. Every day, He helps us to live for Him, sharing His love.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, forgive us when we have failed You, or feel alone, empty, and worthless. Fill our hearts today with Your Spirit, that we may realize Your closeness in our souls as we open up to You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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