Let’s learn about the parable of the fig tree and apply its truths in our lives. It is very important for us to learn from because of the day we are living in. This parable, like all the rest of our Lord Jesus’s parables, are to help us grow in the faith. It speaks about our time and what we need to be doing now. Jesus said, “now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near: So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done. Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.” (Mark 13:28-32) We learn that when the branches of the fig tree become tender and leaves come forth that summer is nigh at hand. And at the time, that the end of its life is near. It is when the fruit is finally found on this tree, that God’s Word is accomplished. Even God’s words shall come to pass through the coming forth of this tree and the branches that have come from it. The leaves are the fruits of these branches. What are the branches? These are people of the faith in Christ’s church, out of every nation. And the leaves are the fruits of their labors, even souls being saved. These are real Christians who love the Lord with all their hearts, who are working in God’s kingdom. It isn’t just what they say, but what they are actively doing through gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus also said, “take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.” (Mark 13:33-37) As we continue to read to the end of this chapter, we learn that Jesus, the Son of Man, has taken a long journey, not being on the earth with us. At the same time, his authority was given to his servants, who are his faithful believers on earth. These are those who he commands to preach the gospel in all nations. We don’t do this on our own accord but through the instruction of Jesus Himself in the great commission. But how can we help anyone come to know Jesus and be saved without the Lord in our lives? The answer is that we cannot. Therefore, we must be continually seeking Jesus in prayer and supplication. Then, will the Holy Spirit be with us, in order to lead us in what we say and do to people. And more importantly, be watchful for Christ’s coming. We are called to be watchful all our days, even every waking hour. This means to not leave our guard down, but to be continually wrapped up in the armor of God. Then, are we protected and will be called up to be with Jesus when He returns. But only those people who were ready when He returns will be saved, for Jesus knew them.
Let us pray:
Oh Lord, I pray that people will be ready for Your return. Surely, the fruit of the vineyard is becoming ripe before our eyes. Therefore, Your second coming is becoming more evident every day. Even now I am watching and waiting for You. With all the energy of my heart do I seek Your hand in prayer and supplication often, that I may be in Your service when that day comes. You have done such a mighty work in my life and it is wonderful. Thank You, Jesus. I have guidance and direction because You have become so near to my heart. I love Your presence. To know that You are leading me by the hand brings me so much joy. I know that You love me because it is so evident by all fruit that has come forth. I do not boast in myself but boast in my God, who did everything through a person of faith like me. I am not good on my own terms, but only when You are with me. Then, there is goodness and grace that flows from You and into my life also. I am so grateful for Your mighty hand. It is so evident in my life and my family. As we read the Bible daily, I have seen such a great shift in our spiritual life. The verses have flown off the pages and into my heart. I cannot highlight enough of all the verses that You are giving me wisdom from. Thank You. It is in constant prayer that I have found You, Jesus. And in prayer time with my family, have they also grown in their faith. Praise God. I pray that more people will also be watchful in prayer in their lives. That they will give You what is necessary for the Spirit to flourish in their lives. We need more kingdom workers, and if people would just yield their lives over to You, then You could be doing so much more. I love You, Lord. I am waiting anxiously for Your return. So please come soon, my Lord, and King. Amen.
