One day, Jesus cursed a fig tree, drove people out of the temple, and flipped some tables. The funny thing is, as Mark tells it, Jesus isn't angry. These aren't outbursts, but faith lessons. Each move is a deliberate teaching action.
The next morning, Peter sees the fig tree Jesus had cursed. He seems surprised. But Jesus had said no one would ever eat fruit from it.
So, what was the problem? The fig tree was like a staged home. Oh, the furniture looks beautiful and makes a wonderful impression on those who enter. It is perfectly presentable. But it is lifeless; no one lives there. The fig tree had leaves that appeared to be ready to bear fruit. But it was all show. An empty promise.
Since Jesus' actions in the temple are sandwiched by the lesson of the fig tree, it seems appropriate to make a connection. Namely, that Jesus wanted us to learn a difference. The difference was between religious activity and spiritual authenticity. Maybe busyness versus fruitfulness.
Even today, we face that same temptation. We live in a highlight-reel culture. We post everything that looks good about our life and even our faith. We filter our flaws and hide behind Bible verses. We might even attend every religious event and know all the right words. But we are spiritually dehydrated. And that leads us to unfruitfulness.
Thankfully, Jesus doesn't shame us. Instead, he calls us out to bring us back to his abundant life. God is not looking for a show. God desires fruit. An empty faith cannot move mountains. So, the invitation today is to live authentically before God because the Lord wants fruit, not foliage.
As you reflect on this story, think about the leaves you let show. Do they represent real spiritual fruit or merely a religious facade? Let the love of God within you match what you show on the outside.
Stay blessed...john | 
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