"Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its branch

becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near." – Mark 13:28

Jesus often used everyday objects to teach eternal truths. In this verse, He points to the fig tree: just as its budding branches signal summer’s arrival, so His followers should be alert to the signs of His coming. The fig tree doesn’t have to force its leaves; it simply responds to the season. In the same way, Christians are called to live watchfully and allow the Spirit’s work in us to be evident to all.

1. Seasons of Growth

Farmers Almanac reminds us that fig trees show outward signs of life as the seasons change. Their tender shoots and fresh leaves point to new growth and fruit to come. For believers, this mirrors how faith matures, hope springs up, and spiritual renewal becomes visible in our lives.

A fig tree thrives when planted in full sun, and it sends down deep roots if given the chance. This is a powerful reminder for us as Christians: we need to live daily in the light of the Son so that we can grow strong. Just as a fig tree’s deep roots anchor it and draw up the nourishment it needs, our spiritual roots must go deep into God’s Word and presence if we want to stand firm and bear lasting fruit.

2. Spiritual Readiness

Fig trees signal the coming of summer when their branches become tender and put out leaves. Farmers Almanac even notes that figs must be planted in the right season — either spring or fall, when conditions are just right.

In the same way, Jesus used the fig tree as a sign of readiness. When its leaves appear, you know change is coming. As Christians, we are called to live watchful and alert, aware of the times. Just as the fig tree’s budding points to summer, our spiritual growth should point to the nearness of Christ’s return and God’s kingdom.

3. Rooted and Nourished

Healthy fig trees require well-drained soil, full sun, and consistent watering. Container-grown figs need even more care, including good soil mixes and proper fertilizer. Without these essentials, the tree cannot thrive or bear fruit.

Likewise, our spiritual lives can’t flourish without proper nourishment. We must stay rooted in Christ and His Word, drawing daily from prayer, worship, and fellowship. A fig tree with shallow roots will wither quickly; a Christian with shallow faith will too. But when we sink our roots deep into God, we grow strong and steady, even in hard seasons.

4. Fruitfulness

Fig trees are known for their abundant fruit, but only if cared for. They must be pruned of dead or weak branches, and sometimes the fruit must even be thinned to encourage larger, healthier figs. Their sweet, mineral-rich fruit strengthens the body, providing more fiber and calcium than many other fruits.

This is a powerful picture of our calling as believers. Jesus reminds us that we are to “bear fruit in season” (Psalm 1:3). When we allow God to prune away what is weak or unhelpful, our lives produce the fruit of the Spirit — love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). Just as figs nourish the body, our spiritual fruit strengthens and blesses those around us.

5. Hope and Anticipation

One of the most exciting parts of growing figs is waiting for the harvest. Farmers Almanac says figs must be picked only when fully ripe because they won’t ripen off the tree. When you see a branch heavy with tender, ripening figs, you know the reward is close.

For the believer, the budding of the fig tree is a symbol of hope. Each new leaf is a reminder that summer is near — and each sign of spiritual growth in our lives is a reminder that Christ’s kingdom is drawing closer. Just as farmers anticipate a sweet harvest, we anticipate the fullness of God’s promises. Our lives should stir up that hope in us — and in those who are watching us.

Bible Journaling Idea

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Reflection Questions

What tender “new leaves” of spiritual growth has God been producing in you recently?
How can you live with greater watchfulness and anticipation of Christ’s return?
In what ways are your roots being nourished — or neglected — in God’s Word?
What fruit of the Spirit do you want to cultivate more fully in your life?
How does your life today stir hope in others for the kingdom that is coming?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the lesson of the fig tree — simple, yet full of meaning. Help me to stay rooted in Your Word, tender to Your Spirit, and watchful for Your return. Let my life show signs of growth, bear fruit that nourishes others, and stir hope in those who see me. Keep me grounded in Your love and filled with anticipation for the fullness of Your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.