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NEW MERCIES 

“Then he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’ “ ‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’ ” Luke 13:6-9 NIV

The mercies of God are new every morning, but there will come a time when the opportunity to change runs out.

In this parable, Jesus paints a picture of a man who has been checking his fig tree for fruit year after year, only to find none. The gardener, representing God’s mercy, pleads for one more year to care for the tree and give it another chance. But if it doesn’t bear fruit, it will be cut down. Jesus uses this story to remind us that while God’s mercy is abundant and patient, it is not unlimited. Many may take His grace for granted, assuming it will last forever, but the time will come when those who refuse to repent and turn to Him will face the consequences of their choices.

For us as believers, this is not just a cautionary tale, but an encouragement to live out our faith. We are called to be more than hearers of the Word, but doers as well—actively growing and bearing fruit. Salvation is not the end; it’s the beginning of a life that reflects Christ. This passage also urges us to reach out to those who have not yet responded to the gospel.

The time for change is now, and God has entrusted us with the message of hope to share with a lost world.

Prayer: Father, thank You for Your patience and mercy. Help me to not only receive Your grace but to bear fruit in my life. Give me boldness to share the good news with those who need it, and may my life reflect Your love. When I stand before You, may I hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.

CI.

RELATED RESOURCES

• James 1:22

• Matthew 28:19

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