Mark 11:12-14; 20-22

August 01, 2024

12 The next morning as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. 13 He noticed a fig tree in full leaf a little way off, so he went over to see if he could find any figs. But there were only leaves because it was too early in the season for fruit. 14 Then Jesus said to the tree, “May no one ever eat your fruit again!” And the disciples heard him say it.

20 The next morning as they passed by the fig tree he had cursed, the disciples noticed it had withered from the roots up. 21 Peter remembered what Jesus had said to the tree on the previous day and exclaimed, “Look, Rabbi! The fig tree you cursed has withered and died!”

22 Then Jesus said to the disciples, “Have faith in God.

Mark 11:12-14; 20-22 NLT

Have you ever grabbed an apple that looked delicious on the outside only to bite into it and discover it was rotten at the core? I hope you haven’t but, if you have, you’ll know the trust issues it causes for the future enjoyment of apples.  

In a fun, yet meaningful way, Mark includes this story of Jesus going to a fig tree for some food. Despite its healthy appearance, Jesus discovers it is fruitless and the disciples overhear him cursing the tree. He is using this as a teaching moment but they can’t see it yet.  

The fig tree, full of leaves but lacking fruit, symbolizes a life that appears vibrant and healthy on the outside but lacks the substance that truly matters. Jesus' curse upon the tree serves as a loud reminder that our lives should not just look good on the outside but should also produce the fruit of righteousness, love, and faithfulness that God desires. 

When Peter points out the withered tree the next day, Jesus seizes the opportunity to show them and us that our faith is connected to our roots. "Have faith in God," He says. This statement calls us to examine the roots of our faith. Are we deeply rooted in God, producing fruit that reflects His love and grace? Or are we merely putting on a show of leaves without the substance of true faith and obedience? 

Jesus teaches us that genuine faith in God is not just about outward appearances. It’s about trusting Him fully, living in obedience to His word, and bearing fruit that brings Him glory. This kind of faith transforms us from the inside out, ensuring that our lives are not just appearing fruitful but have something to offer.  

“Heavenly Father, help us to stay connected to you in a way that produces good fruit! Forgive us if we have appeared one way on the outside but something different on the inside. May our lives reflect your love and produce fruit that points others to you. Amen.”