Sunday 23 March 2025
"Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig around it and put manure on it. If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down." (vs 8-9)
Background
Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem. It’s a slow journey with many pauses for conversation, teaching and miracles, but the overall direction is towards his death on the cross, the climax of his ministry.
These verses bring into sharp focus the demand for a change of heart in good time, before it’s too late.
The conversation begins when someone asks whether some people receive special punishment for wickedness. This question goes back to the story of Job (see Job), and the ‘friends’ who interpret his troubles as punishment for sin. In response, Jesus recalls what seem to be recent events: an outrage in the Temple when Roman soldiers, acting on Pilate’s orders, killed some worshippers, and an accident when a collapsing tower killed some bystanders. These events happened by chance, the by-product of living in a colonised, militarised society. They tell us nothing about those who lost their lives – so don’t be complacent, says Jesus. You are just as much at risk as they were. Renew your way of life and repent, before it’s too late.
After this downbeat reflection, Jesus tells a parable that lifts the spirits. It begins with disappointed hopes – there are few greater treats than a ripe fig, warmed by the sun, fresh from the tree, but on this tree there are no figs at all. Disappointment turns to anger – we’re only too familiar with this progression – and the owner wants the tree cut down. The gardener takes a different view, offering more time and special attention in the hope that the tree can be persuaded to bear fruit. He does not want to see a beautiful tree destroyed – but his patience will also come to an end one day soon.
Who, in this parable, might embody some of God’s qualities? Not the landowner in his impatience. It is the gardener who is concerned for the wellbeing of the tree, recalling the Father-vinedresser of John 15:1. God, the gardener, protects us from destruction and offers extra help to turn the corner and start producing the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). But time is pressing! This is urgent! Before long it will be too late, and the moment of crisis and judgment will be upon us.
To Ponder:
- What fruit of the Holy Spirit might God find ripening in your life?
- Where do you see examples of patience and encouragement to thrive in contemporary society?
Prayer
Patient God, who wants all people to flourish, we pray that in the time remaining to us, we may know your loving care. May we grow and make right choices so that we bear rich fruit for you. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Caroline Wickens
Caroline Wickens is the Superintendent of the Manchester Circuit. She has taught biblical studies in Africa and the UK, and continues to be fascinated by this amazing book.