Staying Connected to the Vine: A Message from Rudy
Recently, I had the chance to speak at our church, Crossroads United Methodist, on a message that’s deeply personal to me—staying connected to the Vine.
Over the course of my life—and especially during two cancer diagnoses—I’ve learned that staying spiritually connected is not just comforting, it’s transformational. When I drifted, I felt like a branch trying to produce fruit without the Vine—burnt out, reactive, afraid. But when I leaned in—through scripture, prayer, community, and trust—I found peace, strength, and even joy in the hardest seasons.
That connection shaped how I show up for my faith, my family, and my work. It’s the difference between being a scorekeeper or a giver… a follower or a leader… a worrier or a worshiper.
At Agile Always, we talk a lot about habits and wellness. But I believe spiritual connection is one of the most vital practices we can cultivate. It anchors everything else—our mindset, our health, our resilience.
My hope—my life mission—is to raise awareness and help get us on the path and remain connected with God… all branches, all producing fruit. To intentionally become and remain connected, maybe consider:
Praying daily
Reading scripture daily (I like the Audible Bible)
Staying connected with people who are more spiritually connected than you
This is one of the prayers I speak aloud in the mornings. Feel free to make it your own, or pass it on to someone who may need it:
Daily Prayer
Thank you Jesus
Thank you Jesus for a refreshing night of rest.
For allowing me to wake recharged, healthy, fit, prepared for all that you have for me today.
I wake excited, an elevated heart rate anticipating the blessings you have in store for me today.
Help me be a blessing to someone today. In all things help me to seek first the Kingdom and teach this concept to others.
Lord, be my GPS, help me:
feel and know your presence
hear your voice
and see the paths you make for me throughout the day.
I'm adorned in the armor you've instructed me to wear, standing where you called me to stand, ready for battle, yet at the same time knowing:
The battle is not mine
The battle is not against flesh and blood but against principalities and dominions on high.
Father, I submit all my battles, all of my fights to you.
Thank you Lord for giving me at least one more day to try and get it right, and thank you Lord for unprecedented favor in all aspects of my life.
I am unable to navigate through this day without you and on you I totally depend.
It is in your limitless name, Lord, Jesus Christ, that I pray and move forward with this day.
AMEN
Every drop is a reminder. This Gratitude Fountain in our home reflects the overflow of thanks I carry—for healing, for family, for each new day. Even in life’s hardest seasons, gratitude keeps me connected to the Vine.
If you want to hear more of this and walk with me through my journey, you can watch or listen to the full message on our Agile Always YouTube channel.
Stay connected,
Rudy