THAT FIG TREE

The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. Then he said to the tree, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard him say it.

Mark 11:12–14, 20–21

I was pretty challenged by this one, yesterday
This tree that Jesus had wanted to take a fruit from, but it had none… it got cursed.

But, D the Chaplain… said something striking — it must have been in an enabling environment. Think about it: planted in soil, receiving sunshine, watered by the rain, covered with green leaves. Everything around it pointed to life and productivity. What then hindered it from being fruitful?

Isn’t that how our lives can be sometimes?

We look the part — leaves are there, appearance is intact, outward show looks promising. Yet when God comes looking for fruit, He finds emptiness.

In this life, what has been causing you not to get to your peak, your fruitful season?

• Could it be distractions?

• Could it be bitterness that has dried the roots?

• Could it be fear that has stunted growth?

• Or maybe complacency — being satisfied with leaves alone?

I believe the Lord has placed us in spaces where we can flourish, where we can influence, where fruit is not an option but an expectation.

The environment is enabling, the grace is available, the opportunities are plenty.

The fig tree teaches us something sobering: potential without fruit is wasted. God is not impressed by appearances — He is seeking fruit, and fruit that lasts.

So today, ask yourself: What’s hindering my fruitfulness? What needs to be pruned? What must I surrender? Because the truth is this — if the Lord has planted you in a good space, then your life must bear good fruit.

May we not just look like Christians, but truly live fruitful lives that show Christ in us.

May our families, workplaces, neighborhoods, and ministries find nourishment when they come to us.

Because when God comes looking, may He not find just leaves… but fruit that glorifies Him.