Everything has its season

 Matthew 21:18-19

In the morning, when Jesus returned to the city, he was hungry. And seeing a fig tree by the side of the road, he went to it and found nothing at all on it but leaves. Then he said to it, “May no fruit ever come from you again!” And the fig tree withered at once.

How often do we have days like the one Jesus had

when he cursed the fig tree?

He was hangry*

And, even though it was out of season

Even though the fig tree was resting

already nurturing within itself

all the fruits of a new season

that would spring forth in time…

Right there and then

it was of no use

to a man on a mission.

I wonder how often, in our impatience

we haven’t given others a chance

How often have we given up too soon?

How often, have we, ourselves, been judged and found wanting 

because others are simply in the wrong frame of mind

impatient for something that might be consumed?

I wonder what opportunities will be presented to us today

gifts that, if we get out of our own way

or, if we dare to risk delayed gratification

will be ours to nurture

until the harvest in its season.

(Liz Crumlish)

*hangry - angry/irrational because one is hungry