The Fig Tree

Jesus often used real life situations to teach his disciples a lesson about God. The story of Jesus and the fig tree in the book of Mark is a great example.

The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. Then he said to the tree, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.”And his disciples heard him say it.

Mark 11:12-14

Did Jesus really approach a fig tree, unaware that it was not in season to bear fruit? Or did he see an opportunity to teach his disciples the power we have as His children? At this point they no doubt sensed his frustration, but probably saw his curse as nothing more than a minor hunger tantrum.

 In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots. Peter remembered and said to Jesus, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!”
Mark 11:20-21

It must have been fascinating to see a tree that just yesterday had been flourishing; now withered from the roots. Pretty unbelievable! What was the point? Jesus responded to Peter: 

“Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. “Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. 
Mark 11:22-23

We don't really see mountains being hurled into seas. So, was Jesus' lesson to His disciples figurative, or are we as Christians truly missing out on the power we have through Christ? 
Jesus then shifts the focus from the withered fig tree, and mountains in the ocean, to the believers' prayer life.

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in Heaven may forgive you your sins.”
Mark 11:24-25

It was never about the fig tree that wasn't bearing fruit when Jesus was hungry. He wanted to open his disciple's eyes to the incredible world before them. To the power of God, and the amazing possibilities that come with being His follower. We, as they, need to see beyond the doubt; our very capable God who would hurl mountains into the sea if we only believed.

This week pray boldly, faithfully, and without a doubt that He is able. Who knows what will happen!