In this Gospel we read that Jesus is the ‘true vine’.  If we proclaim, through our words and actions, that we are believers in the Risen Lord then we are the branches of the vine. Think for a moment about a gardener: the gardener's job is to make sure that the plants which he or she tends to are healthy and strong. The gardener prunes the plant, cutting away any dead, damaged or weak branches to encourage new growth and make the plant stronger. Good pruning builds a strong framework in the vine, encouraging good growth in the branches for years to come. Jesus used this story to explain how we are all part of him and through the work of God the Father we flourish and grow strong. He prunes away the things in our lives that make us weak or stop us from growing in faith and love. Jesus is living and working in our lives, our kindness and generosity are the fruits of his love for all to see.