The Unfortunate Fig Tree

December 23, 2023

In Mark 11:12-14, Jesus approaches a fig tree, expecting to find fruit, only to find it barren. He then curses the tree, causing it to wither. Later, in verses 22-24, He explains that this act demonstrates the power of faith-filled prayer. However, one lingering question remains:

Why did Jesus expect the tree to bear fruit when it wasn’t the season for figs?

At first glance, this may seem like an unreasonable expectation. Yet, Scripture is never arbitrary—every action of Christ carries a deeper message. The fig tree represents something far more significant than agriculture; it serves as a metaphor for spiritual readiness and the way we live our lives before God.

A Reflection on Readiness

This passage challenges us to examine our own spiritual fruitfulness. Just as the fig tree had the appearance of life but lacked fruit, we, too, can appear faithful while failing to bear the fruit of genuine service.

In my own reflections, I found myself considering how best to serve God in the coming year. It seemed convenient to dedicate Sundays exclusively to ministry—serving God before anything else in the week. However, as I examined my motives, I realized that I was unintentionally compartmentalizing my faith. Service to God was becoming something scheduled, rather than a continuous way of life.

I initially thought the solution was to add more ministry commitments throughout the week. But even that would have been compartmentalization if outside of those activities, I was no longer living in service to Him. My mistake lay in my mindset—I had subtly begun to think that serving God was a separate duty, rather than an all-encompassing purpose.

The Danger of Divided Priorities

One of the reasons I sought to increase my service was a belief that if I took care of God’s work, He would take care of mine. This mindset, however, borders on the prosperity gospel—a notion I have been critical of. Matthew 6:24 makes it clear:

“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”

The realization struck me: My business, my career, and even my family’s livelihood do not belong to me—they belong to God. If I am truly His servant, then everything in my life must be dedicated to His purpose. Any success I achieve, any wealth I accumulate, will fade away when I leave this world. The only things of lasting value are those done for Him (2 Corinthians 4:18).

No Such Thing as “Me Time”

Returning to the fig tree, I considered: What if the tree had known that Jesus was approaching? Would it have strained with all its might to bear fruit for Him? If it had, Christ could have blessed it to thrive forever. Instead, it remained barren and was cursed.

This realization convicted me. I must not wait for a more convenient season to bear fruit. Whether in my business, relationships, or personal time, every aspect of my life must be lived in service to God. There is no “me time”—there is only time that either honors Him or does not.

A Life Fully Dedicated

If Jesus comes on any day that isn’t a Sunday, will He find you worshipping him? 

This is the heart of true dedication. It is not merely about what we do for God, but about ensuring that everything we do—whether at work, at home, or in ministry—is done for Him.

As Colossians 3:23-24 reminds us:

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.”

The fig tree’s lesson is clear: Be ready. Serve wholeheartedly. And let every aspect of life bear fruit for Him.