In this sermon, based on John 15:1-8, I look at Jesus’ image of the vine and branches. How do we abide in Christ? Do we love with a passion and acceptance that resembles Jesus’ love and boundary crossing behavior that went beyond the expectations of the time? Do we participate in God’s radical hospitality?

Too often and for too long, exclusive varieties of Christianity have shaded the life of Jesus. Judgment and narrow mindedness has crowded out communities of faith from reaching out into communities especially when those communities change.

The invitation and mandate of the gospel is one if expanding love. Of witnessing to God’s goodness for all. We are called to remain connected to Jesus’ love.