Barren

Inspired by Mark 11:12–14

In the natural order, a fig tree’s leaves promise fruit. Yet this tree, lush in green, offered nothing to satisfy hunger. Jesus’ judgment—“May no one ever eat fruit from you again”was not just about branches, but a living parable of spiritual barrenness.

The single woodpecker among the leaves tells the hidden truth: rot beneath the surface. Like Israel’s leaders, the tree wore the signs of life but was hollow within.

This piece invites us to look inward. Do we bear the fruit of repentance, love, and humility or simply wear the leaves of faith while our hearts remain unyielding? God is not deceived by leaves. He searches for fruit.