JESUS AND THE FIG TREE

This morning's reading always amazes me. I would just as soon have titled this piece Vindictive Jesus, or Spoiled Brat Jesus or any number of other heretical titles. But, really! What gives with this Jesus. His infantile hunger prompts him to put a curse on an innocent fig tree, just because the tree has not offered him an out of season fig to satisfy his immediate need. He has a temper tantrum. The fig tree withers and dies.

When questioned, Jesus came forth with the 'faith can move mountains' analogy. For me it would have been a better lesson if he had commanded the out of season fruit to spring forth for his satisfaction rather than condemn the tree to death. I abhor the thought that 'faith' can be used unjustly.

Scripture bewilders me and angers me.