OF FIGS AND THE POWER OF WORDS

OF FIGS AND THE POWER OF WORDS The crusade ground was packed full, hardly standing room. The crowd was excited, the message of the cross was celebrated, and many marched forward to receive Christ. It was a very good meeting, the type that rewards all the preparation that went into putting it together. The Man of God and his crew were happy but exhausted. They retired early as the Master had warned it would be a demanding couple of days. Jesus rode the colt to Jerusalem amidst a frenzied and singing crowd. The procession was colourful, with the bright colours of draperies and lush palm greens. The colt was all smiles, and in a day's activities, it saw that waiting had its reward. Nothing could match his pride when the Master chose him as the preferred transport. He was decorated in a way he had never seen. The crowd was jubilating, and though he could not wave his hands because the Master was on top of him, he could not hide the smile that graced his face and the joy that filled his heart. The disciples were the groomsmen, not left out in the parade. Their decision to follow this prophet began to look like a worthwhile venture. They were garnering attention everywhere they went. This man was churning out wonders by the day, and they were thrilled to be in the inner caucus. The day's event was glorious and exhausting. Their destination was Jerusalem, and time was of the essence. They set out early the following day, the Master was hungry, and he was not alone. It was not the first time. They were sure he would figure out something. He always did, never one to be caught in a bind. They debated that amongst themselves when He stopped by the fig tree that lined their path. The tree was sitting in its glory, occupying prime estate. It was beautiful and green. The leaves had a shine to them. Could it be the effect of the sun, or did early morning drops give them a buff? The Master drew near; who wouldn't? The tree was attractive, full and barren. But, wait, it was not time for it to bloom. Whilst that may be, it was the nature of figs to show signs of fruitfulness. This one was still dreaming. No one expected the fruits to be ripe; it was not their season. But they should have appeared or indicated they were coming. Whatever the reason the fig had, the Master was not having it. He was hungry and angry. "how dare you situate yourself at a vantage position and be empty? Why deprive others of showcasing their gifts when your quiver is lacking? The Master gave the word only. It brought dryness and eventual death. Bystanders were astonished, and close buddies were about to learn another life lesson. "Rabbi, that was a harsh one; that tree is not in season; why would you order its death?" He must have responded, "my son, morning shows the day. We should have seen it practising the steps if it was going to dance on the market square." "So what spoke, the hunger, the anger or both?" "Neither. I needed you to learn what power you have in the words of your mouth." Let's take a break and situate ourselves in the story. Dear child of God, what would we find if we came close to you? Do you look, talk, and act anointed but void of power? Does anyone around you even know that you belong on the way, or did you let the sticker on your car of door do the talking? Do you occupy the front row and need to learn how to serve the king when He comes by? Does your worship have substance, or do you only look the part? Time passed, and Jesus' buddies asked Him the question that plagued their minds sins the words spoken. "Master, look, the fig tree is dead!" Being one never to pass up an opportunity to teach, Jesus replied. 1. Have faith. 2. Doubt not. 3. Speak the word. 4. Believe in the power of your words. Early in the morning, as Jesus was on his way back to the city, he was hungry. Seeing a fig tree by the road, he went up to it but found nothing on it except leaves. Then he said to it, “May you never bear fruit again!” ..