Armodoxy for Today: Not to mention raisins and iron

Raisins are dried grapes. Yes, those tasty, robust and aromatically pleasing grapes that are a product of the branch connected to the Vine, will dry up and shrivel, if not consumed. The grapes that are produced have an end goal and purpose, to offer taste, nutrition and beauty to others and the world. But at the end of their life cycle, once they come off the Vine they are dead. No matter how good they look, taste or smell, they are most certainly dead.

Jesus sets up this metaphor to remind us that beauty is only skin deep. If we are not connected to the Divine, we may be basking in wealth, beauty and luxury – that is, look, take and smell great – but we are spiritually dead. Sure, raisins also have nutritional value; they are a source of iron. Think about it: Iron is cold metal. Yes, Jesus’ metaphor works as it illustrates separation from the True Vine.

Today’s one minute for Summertime.