May 15: The "Plan B" of the Grafted Branch

May 15: The "Plan B" of the Grafted Branch

Scripture: "And if some of the branches were broken off, and you... were grafted in among them... do not boast against the branches." — Romans 11:17-18

When the "original branches" (Israel) failed to fulfill the "Plan A" of being a light to the nations, God provided a "Plan B" through "Grafting." He opened the "Door of Faith" to the Gentiles, allowing "wild olive branches" to be "grafted into" the "root and fatness" of the olive tree. This is the "Inclusive Truth" of the Gospel.

"Grafting" is a "miracle of nature." A "foreign branch" is "bound" to a "new source," and the "life-giving sap" of the root begins to flow through it. This is our "Plan B" identity. We are "not original," but we are "included." We share in the "promises" and the "power" of the "True Vine."

This "Grafting" requires "Humility." We are "supported by the root," not the other way around. Our "Plan B" life is entirely "dependent" on our "connection" to Christ. As Adventists, we recognize that our "mission" is to "invite others" to be "grafted in" to the "Tree of Life."

Today, celebrate your "Grafted Identity." You are part of a "Great Family" that spans all nations and times. You are "connected" to the "Source of Life." Let the Truth of your "inclusion" fill you with "gratitude" and "purpose." You are "no longer a stranger," but a "member of the household."

Reflection Questions:
How does being "grafted in" affect my sense of "belonging"?
Am I "boasting" against others, or am I "humbling" myself before the Root?
Who can I "invite" to be "grafted in" to God's "Tree of Life" today?

Source: Inspired by The Acts of the Apostles, Ellen G. White; BRI articles on Israel and the Church.