Mark 11:12-14, 20-33

As Jesus and His disciples went outside the city of Bethany, Jesus was hungry and desired something to eat (11:12). He sees a fig tree in the distance so He approaches it only to find no fruit (11:13). From every appearance, this tree should have had fruit but its leaves gave a false impression. Jesus reacts to this disappointing finding and says, “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again” (11:14). Even though it was not the “season for figs” the tree should have been bearing some fruit – the season was only a month away. This situation goes a little deeper than just fig trees. In the Old Testament, fig trees were often symbolic of the nation of Israel. He may have been using this tree as an illustration of Israel’s failure to obey God although they attempted to appear as if they loved Him.

The next morning as the disciples passed by the fig tree they noticed it had dried up (11:20), so Peter points this out to Jesus (11:21) who then uses their observation to teach a lesson about faith in God (11:22). He says, “whoever says to this mountain, ‘be removed and be cast into the sea’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says” (11:23). I am assuming that the disciples did not understand Jesus’ words as literal (ie they could really move mountains) otherwise we would have some type of manifestation of this miracle. However, Jesus was instructing them that faith in God alone will enable them to see Him do many wonderful works; in other words, God’s power is accessible to those who evidence full dependence on God. Jesus goes on to say, “whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them” (11:24). They key here is that faith cannot be in self or other things. Our trust must be in God’s ability to make the impossible happen and through us He will accomplish great things. Jesus is not speaking of selfish requests, but asking for those things which really count for His glory.

Dear God, may I be a person of faith who trusts You to do the impossible. As a result of my faith in You, may You receive the honor and glory which You deserve.