For a description of the (Y2) reading plan, see the “About” page.
Mark 11
Why did Jesus curse the fig tree and how was that prophetic act related to what followed at the temple? I noticed a few little details in this chapter this morning that I have never really paid attention to before. Nothing earth-shattering, but here are a few thoughts:
- When the disciples collected the colt for Jesus, they were to tell questioners, “The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.” (Mark 11:3b). Jesus didn’t say He would bring it back. He said He would send it back. Ten bucks to a dollar that little donkey (and possibly its mother, from other accounts) made its way back to its home all on its own. Just a cute reminder to me that all of creation does God’s bidding.
- Mark states that Jesus went to the temple courts the evening before He cursed the fig tree and then disrupted the temple’s profiteering venture. I always thought His little display was spontaneous, but this makes me think otherwise. It makes me think He planned the whole event, right down to the fig tree object lesson for His disciples. Last time I read this chapter, I finally caught the imagery of God’s unfruitful people in the fig tree. But I still had not connected His actions in the temple courts as part of the same message.
- It had also somehow never occurred to me that when the Jewish religious leaders asked Jesus, “By what authority are you doing these things?” (Mark 11:27), that “these things” may well have been in reference to Jesus’ actions in clearing out the temple courts. I always figured they were asking about His miracles and other ministry work. No wonder Jesus’ responding question about John the Baptist made them so nervous! Having authority to do miracles is one thing. But having authority over God’s temple put Jesus on a whole ‘nuther level.
Jer. 45-46
What does the Lord mean when He tells Baruch, “do not seek great things for yourself?” According to these prophecies, God is directing the affairs of nations. Apply that thought to our current world. What do you think and feel about that? What questions does it raise? It is hard to look at the state of the world today and not be distressed. People have fallen so far from God! Wickedness abounds, and the Church is watered down with lies and complacency. It is hard not to get angry with it all and wonder why God does not act.
Why does it make us angry, though? And what is it that we want God to do? Yes, we all want to see the wicked get their due. However, I suspect much of that desire is because the wicked cause turmoil, discomfort, and distress in the world. I think, like Baruch, we who try to live in God’s righteousness are, “worn out with groaning and find no rest.” (Jer. 45:3b). We want to live peaceful, comfortable lives, but it seems the only ones getting what they want are the wicked.
I think, then, there is a lesson for me in God’s word to Baruch. Everything God created on this earth, He will destroy. Thus, there is nothing here for me; none of it will last. So I need only what He provides for me to do what He has called me to do in this life, whatever that may be. Let me seek Him as my one desire rather than whatever else I think I want, because His promise is true. “Wherever you go I will let you escape with your life.” (Jer. 45:5b). There is a new heaven and a new earth coming where wickedness cannot enter. I’ll be holding out for that.