Daily Devotional - Day 41

Holy Week - Monday

Today’s Reading: (Mark 11:12-17)

The day after the kingly procession, Christ curses the fig tree and erupts in anger.

Jesus intentionally voiced his complaint about the tree within hearing of the disciples. He was demonstrating his righteous anger against those in Israel that feigned love for God but only served themselves. How? The tree in full leaf should have been budding. Instead, it was dead at the core.

In the same way, the merchants in the temple caused righteous indignation to stir in Christ’s belly. Rather than praising God, people were swindling one another. Like the fig tree—to which Israel had been compared in scripture, God’s people lacked fruit.

Similarly, worshippers may appear alive but lack faith. Only when we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior will we flourish and bear fruit for the kingdom.

Reflection Question for Today: 

What fruit do others see in your life?

A Holy Monday Prayer: 

Lord, only days before your death, you entered the temple and cleared the courts of unfaithful followers. Guard us against religiosity and grow us in relationship with you through the Holy Spirit, Jesus. May we faithfully bear fruit as you transform us day by day. In the powerful name of Jesus Christ, Amen.