Scripture: Mark 11:12-14
On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see whether perhaps he would find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. He said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard it.
Thought for the Day: After Jesus entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, he had an odd encounter with a fig tree. It seems odd because Jesus appears frustrated with the tree. His frustration is centered on the fact that it is not producing fruit, though the passage clearly states that it was not the season for figs. As Mark tells the story, it is critical to read it within the larger context that includes Jesus entering the temple and causing all kinds of chaos. We also need to understand the encounter with the fig tree in the broader context of the Jewish Prophets who often used common items to make a point. As I read it, Jesus sees the fig tree from a distance. He sees leaves and assumes it is producing good fruit. But upon closer observation, there is no fruit. For the followers of Jesus, there should not be an in season and out of season for bearing good fruit. What people see and assume about us from a distance should be what they discover to be true close up. As I read these words, I hear a confrontational metaphor against hypocrisy. Jesus is calling out those who pretend to be one thing when in fact, upon closer observation, their lives do not resemble that at all. In this Holy Week, let us see Jesus coming close and reflect on what he will find within us.
Prayer: As I walk alongside you in this Holiest Week of the year, O Spirit of the Suffering Christ, may I look deep within myself and ask whether the world’s perception of me is an accurate accounting of who I really am. If not, help me to align my life more fully with you, O Lord, so that I am producing the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness and self-control. Amen.
TWO IMPORTANT SERVICES
Maundy Thursday
7pm
Good Friday
7pm
