24/08/2024
The story of the fig tree in Mark 11 is so short that its easy to miss the lesson behind it.
Why did Jesus curse the tree? Afterall, it was not the season for it to bear fruit. Its really not the tree’s fault. Or so I thought.
When we read Scripture it helps to read it under the lense of knowing we have a purposeful God. There’s always a reason behind the things He does.
The fig tree was not cursed because it did not have fruit. It was cursed because it had the “appearance” of many leaves but no fruit. It was masquerading to be something it was not.
I was confronted with this truth years ago when I found myself so focused with work, taking bible school and serving in the church that I thought I was producing lots of fruit. By the mercy of God, He warned me of the temptation towards false pretenses of having fruit.
Anyone can be winning in the workplace, successful in school or serving hard in the church but a closer look will reveal withered roots. Thats why anyone can be infuential but have no true impact.
This thought haunted me after God’s tender rebuke: What will Jesus find in me, just leaves or figs too?
Jesus warns us of His displeasure when we have the appearance of fruit but not the fruit itself. Lets not miss out on holiness trying to be impressive. The goal is not to look Christian but to be Christ-like. Intimacy is still the priority. 💯
