Jesus tells a story about a fig tree, using it as a way of telling what season it is. We read this story in the Bible in the gospel of Matthew. It says:
“Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.” Matthew 25:33-34
This is a fig tree. Let’s look at it.
Jesus said look for the tender branch. And he said
Look for the new leaves coming on it.
When you see those things you’ll know summer is near.
This is the first week of May. We can see these signs on this fig tree… so according to digns Jesus said watch for, which season is close by?
What happens as we get close to the end of May? Last week we celebrated our seniors graduating from high school. So the school year is ending. That means what season is starting?
SUMMER! Yes!
The fig tree has a regular pattern. The leaves appear, and then summer follows. When you see the leaves, you know summer is near.
After the leaves come, then a fig tree buds…. See these little buds on here?
That means that something is definitely going to happen….summer is almost here and the fig’s fruit is coming.
Jesus is teaching his disciples about time by the signs of the seasons they can see changing. We have these and other physical signs that show us when seasons are changing. God has patterns that are signs for us about changes that are coming whether it’s for plants, animals, or people.
In the same way, God will give us signs as God makes other things happen. Spiritual things. Changes as we grow in our rekationship with Him.
Do you remember one of the really bright signs that showed the wise men that the baby Jesus was going to be born? That sign was a star.
YAfter Jesus rose from the dead at Easter he stayed with told his disciples a little longer and taught them more about that other things God would do and that God would give more signs to the church so they would know when Jesus would return to us after he had gone back to heaven so that all Jesus’ churches can know to watch and be ready!