The Fig Tree

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Scripture: Luke 21:29-33 (ESV)

29 And he told them a parable: “Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. 30 As soon as they come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and know that the summer is already near. 31 So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near. 32 Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.

Devotion:

            This parable about the fig tree occurs in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Pages of ink have been spilled on the meaning of this little story, and we are no closer to fully understanding it than Jesus’ disciples were. So, my comments here are not dogmatic but are meant to show my understanding of these verses; you may decipher and apply them as the Lord leads you.

            The basics of what Jesus tells us about the fig tree (and all the trees only here in Luke) are simple enough. Every spring where I live in Illinois, we eagerly await signs of life in the trees that have been barren all winter long. We know that when that happens, the flowers of the garden and the crops in the endless corn fields surrounding my town will soon be full of life. That much of what Jesus says is clear. Somehow, we are to know that when we see the signs that Jesus has talked about in these chapters of the gospel, we will know that the end of this age is near.

            What Jesus means when He says, “Truly, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all has taken place,” is less clear. What He may mean by ‘generation’ and ‘all’ is ambiguous. Is Jesus prophesying about the destruction of the temple in CE 70, or is it some other event that has not yet happened? We cannot be sure.

            We may glean from Jesus’ words here that heaven and earth can cease to exist before Jesus’ words will. Events in the world have often looked like the end of times. Thus, there are many failed predictions about Jesus’ return. Every generation has its crisis points. Today, we appear to be at yet another of these crossroads. It is a presidential election year here in the United States. Once again voters will face a tough choice for their future. What will happen in serious doubt.

            We must ask for God’s help as we face our future together. What the future holds will challenge all of our leadership. Let us ask God that they will be able to face challenges and help our nation prosper.

Prayer:

            Lord, help us to watch for signs of your return. Let us be ready at any moment to respond to your call. May we work with you to bring your kingdom to earth. May we always be prepared to do your will. May your church bring glory to your name. Amen.

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