The Fruitless Fig Tree. Mark 11:12-14.
On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. And he said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard it.
Dear New Israel,
This curious story of the fig tree has intrigued most people because at first glance it appears uncharacteristic of Jesus.
Hunger (v. 12). We do not know why Jesus was hungry, having come from the house of friends. It is possible that several hours had passed already since he left Bethany. This is not the first time Jesus was hungry, so we take note that Mark wants us to pay attention to the outcome of Jesus’ hunger.
Hope (v. 13). A fig tree in the distance offers false hope of something to eat. The hope is false because it is not the season for figs. The tree is leafy and green – inviting in its appearance, but it is all a show. Appearances can be deceiving. And as the English say, Not all that glitters is gold. Leafy does not mean fruity.
Harshness (v. 14). It seems that Jesus is uncharacteristically harsh on a tree that did not have a choice when to be in fruit. But the fig tree is often symbolic of Israel. In less than a week, the leaders of Israel would reject Jesus and lead the crowds in doing the same. As a result, Israel would be set aside and become an unfruitful fig tree, until the end times. Paul tells us that hardening has come upon Israel for a time, until “the fulness of the Gentiles has come in” (Romans 11:25). God is not desperate. If one people reject him, he will go to another. Are you sure you are not taking God for granted, as Israel did?
Your Loving Pastor Chris.