27 May 2016 - the time for figs

[ Today's Readings ]

The next day as they were leaving Bethany he was hungry.
Seeing from a distance a fig tree in leaf,
he went over to see if he could find anything on it.
When he reached it he found nothing but leaves;
it was not the time for figs.

We need to be ready to bear fruit when we find Jesus hungry. We need to be ready even if that is not normal or natural. Even if it is not the time for figs we should be ready to bear them if Jesus is hungry.

“Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? (see Matthew 24:45)

How do we bear fruit when it isn't in season?

And on the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither, nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for healing. (see Ezekiel 47:12)

We need the water of life. From whence does it come?

But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water (see John 19:34).

It first comes from Jesus. But how do we become filled with this living water?

Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’ (see John 7:38).

We become like him in whom we put our faith.

This is why it is so important to be "serious and sober-minded so that you will be able to pray". Even at crunch time, even at "the end of all things" this is possible. The world doesn't think so. The world is ready to let itself be overwhelmed by circumstance. It can only produce figs at the time for figs. Not so with believers. Rivers of living water keep us ever green! These rivers not only keep our love alive but they allow it to be intense. The circumstances may amount to a trial by fire. But even if we do burn in the trial, it is the Holy Spirit purifying us, so there is a purpose.

But rejoice to the extent that you share in the sufferings of Christ,
so that when his glory is revealed
you may also rejoice exultantly.

Let's cast from our hearts those things which distract us. We need to be centered in prayer so that our faith in Jesus can make this difference in our lives. Let's not let the money changers and those selling doves distract us. Let's forgive those against whom we have a grievance so these can't distract us either.

Therefore I tell you, all that you ask for in prayer,
believe that you will receive it and it shall be yours.
When you stand to pray,
forgive anyone against whom you have a grievance,
so that your heavenly Father may in turn
forgive you your transgressions.

If we just keep returning to prayer amazing things happen. Living waters flow. We bear fruit that lasts for eternal life.

Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice;
let the sea and what fills it resound;
let the plains be joyful and all that is in them!
Then shall all the trees of the forest exult.