Former Blackout Artist

Then Jesus told this story: “A man planted a fig tree in his garden and came again and again to see if there was any fruit on it, but he was always disappointed. Finally, he said to his gardener, ‘I’ve waited three years, and there hasn’t been a single fig! Cut it down. It’s just taking up space in the garden.’ “The gardener answered, ‘Sir, give it one more chance. Leave it another year, and I’ll give it special attention and plenty of fertilizer. If we get figs next year, fine. If not, then you can cut it down.’” – Luke 13:6-9

In the parable above, Jesus tells the story of a fig tree that has not produced fruit for three years. The owner of the vineyard, frustrated by its barrenness, decides it should be cut down to make space for a more productive plant. The gardener however intercedes. “Give it one more year,” he says to the owner. “I’ll give it special care and give it some fertilizer. Then, if it’s still not producing any fruit, you can cut it down.”

Jesus doesn’t tell us if the tree finally produced fruit in the fourth year. He leaves us hanging. But there’s a good reason for that.

God represents the Landowner, and Jesus represents the Gardener. You and I – we are the barren fig trees that have yet to bear any fruit. And Jesus is challenging us to reflect on our attitude and response to God’s enormous grace and patience extended to us.

While God provides us the opportunity and means to grow spiritually, it’s ultimately up to us to respond to His nurturing so that we can produce fruit in our lives. The uncertainty of the tree’s future convicts us to be active participants in our spiritual development, making the most of the grace and time God gives us.

Isn’t it great to hear Jesus say that God doesn’t give up on us?! He gives us additional time to grow, to repent, and become fruitful. And Jesus willingly intercedes on our behalf, digging around and exposing the roots of our sin, then providing the nourishment we need through God’s written Word, His community, and His Spirit.

Are there aspects of your life that need more attention and growth? Have you made a commitment to allow God to work in you? Are you open to His pruning and digging and fertilizing through prayer, Bible study, and stepping out in faith to serve others?

So let’s do our part to help save a tree by encouraging and supporting those who might be struggling or not yet bearing fruit in their lives. Just as God has been patient with us, let us be patient with others.