Re:Verse passage – Luke 13:1-9 (day five)
And He began telling this parable: “A man had a fig tree which had been planted in his vineyard;” Question- Why would someone plant a fig tree in a vineyard? Isn’t a vineyard a place for grapes, not figs? It was customary in those days for Jewish farmers to plant all sorts of fruit trees in their vineyards. Vineyards were often called fruit fields because of this practice. Answer- Because vineyards were places that had the best soil and received the best agricultural attention and care.
In my days in youth ministry, I always believed if we could have teenagers who weren’t believers join us in weekly worship and study, or better yet, come to camp or a retreat, they more often than not, would sense the Lord’s presence and call on Him to be saved. The “soil” there (worship, fellowship, Bible Study) always seemed to be fertile for growing God’s Kingdom. We constantly prayed and prepared that way.
I still believe that about the church- our church. Back to the parable. Someone brought/planted that fig tree to the vineyard, believing that the soil there was better for growth and there would be contact and care from the gardener.
Do we still invite, bring, and welcome non-believers to join us with that same kind of hope and desire? Do we intentionally tend our own lives (disciplines, conversations, behaviors) that we might be fertile soil in our homes, communities, and work places? Will we pray and prepare that way each week? Each day?
Reminds me of the plaque with Jesus’ words you used to have on your office wall: “Come and see!”
We’re grateful for your leadership and your love for the lost, Scott!