October 6

Nothing But Leaves

Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, He went to see if there was any fruit on it. But when He reached it, He found nothing on it except leaves, since it was not the season for figs. — Mark 11:13 BSB

There were many other fig trees in the area, but Jesus didn’t turn to them because they gave no sign of having fruit. He went to this one because its early leaves suggested it had early fruit. Christ doesn’t expect to find spiritual fruit in the lives of those who don’t follow Him, but He does expect it from those who claim to be His.

Just as Jesus turned to the fig tree expecting fruit, so hungry souls turn to the Church and to believers looking for spiritual food. What that tree was to Jesus, the Jewish Church was to people hungry for spiritual guidance. People with heavy burdens, deep questions, sorrows, and longings for help would turn to the priests, hoping to find answers. Today, the mission of every Christian Church is to feed hungry souls. In moments of guilt, in times of trouble, or in the shadow of death, even the most worldly people turn to the Church seeking what they need.

A church is like a great tree in the desert, promising fruit. Those who hunger spiritually turn to it for nourishment. Few things are sadder than a church that promises to give food to the hungry, refreshment to the weary, and comfort to the sorrowing, yet fails to fulfill its promise.