Mark 11:14 Then he said to the tree, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard him say it.
This tale has always perplexed me a bit, but in light of yesterday’s devo, it makes a bit more sense. Yesterday, the rich man wanted to know what he could DO to gain heaven, and Jesus’s response was, essentially, it’s not about works but about faith in Him.
Mark 11:20 In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots.
The issue today is similar but different. Commentary says, “This tree was cursed because it professed to have fruit, but did not.” This sentence brought to mind Matthew 15:8, “’These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” The leaf implies fruit, yet there was no fruit. Their hearts were far from God and, therefore, their actions were futile in His kingdom work.
Mark 11:21 Peter remembered and said to Jesus, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!”
Lord, I know I cannot work my way into heaven. Salvation is a gift from You. Thank You. But I also know that, because I am Your beloved child, You call me to Your kingdom work. Help me to do that work with my whole heart. Help me to be fruitful in all that I do in Your name. To You be the glory, both now and forever. Amen.
Mark 11:22 “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered.
Have a blessed day.