Incarnation (Death): Fig Trees & Temple Tables – Dave Teixeira

In Mark 11:11-25, Jesus exposes the emptiness of selfish, exploitative religion by cursing a fruitless fig tree and overturning tables in the temple. The fig tree, full of leaves but barren of fruit, symbolizes a faith that looks good on the outside but lacks true devotion to God’s heart. Likewise, the temple—intended to be a house of prayer for all nations—had become a marketplace of exclusion and exploitation, cutting off access for the poor and foreigners seeking God. Jesus calls us to reject hollow religiosity and instead hunger for lives marked by prayer—authentic connection with God—and forgiveness, extending His mercy to others. A faith that bears real fruit is one that welcomes the marginalized, advocates for justice, and offers grace as freely as we have received it. As we follow Christ, may we be known not for temple tables of self-interest, but for lives that reflect the love of God to the world.