It’s the “Holy Week” and as I said on Friday it’s one of my favorite weeks. This year, I am trying to spend a little time each day taking a look at the things that Jesus the Christ did on these days between the time we was selected as the lamb and the events of the coming weekend.
So its Monday, and today he cursed a fig tree.
12 The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. 13 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. 14 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, New International Version, ©2011)
I have heard some people say this was a selfish action of the part of Christ. However, I believe he was making an example through the figs. (This is getting a little bit theological here, but not real deep because I am not sure I am that deep of a scholar.) Some others say this is a example of the religious leaders of the day– probably. But I was thinking this morning while I was rushing about, and looking for a cat who was hiding very well ( he will be made an example this evening). Anyway, I think this shows the burning desire of the Christ for us to produce fruit. Not to earn anything, not to show our own greatness, but in return for his gift. He created the fig tree, he created us. He burns for us to produce fruit – the fruit of the spirit – the outcome of good done in His name.
So, just like on Friday with the rocks, I think it’s our job to not be found out of season, but to be constantly working to produce fruit – fruit that brings glory to Him.