I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. (John 15:1 ESV)
Vinedressers
A grape does not determine it’s own flavor. A grape does not determine it’s own vintage. A grape does not determine it's own value. A grape does not determine it’s own pairings. A grape does not determine it's own usefulness. A grape does not determine it's own harvesting, processing, aging, bottling, and sales plan.
A grape needs a vinedresser.
Even Jesus had His vinedresser, His Father.
We need that, too.
Sometimes I think I am a pretty clever grape. Sometimes I try to define myself according to my own standards. Sometimes I act like I am in charge.
And while it might SEEM insulting, demeaning, or sad to admit that I need a vinedresser… it is not!
Because that vinedresser is grand! He knows and loves me! He knows and loves the marketplace! He knows and loves everything about grapes!
And He is good!
Jesus had His vinedresser… and we have the same one!