Today's readings give a clear image: Christ is the vine and we are the branches. Saint Teresa lived this reality, completely connected to Jesus so that his life flowed through her.
When we stay attached to God through prayer, the sacraments, and humility, life functions better and we bear fruit. God prunes us—often through hardship—not to punish us but to remove pride and self-interest so humility, love, and peace can grow.
If we unite our difficulties to Christ, suffering becomes a source of grace and resurrection, producing more fruit rather than separation from the vine.
