The Barren Fig Tree
Mercy delays judgement, but fruit is still demanded.
Jesus warns that time is not endless: patient cultivation aims at repentance and fruit, not indefinite delay.
Scripture
6 He spoke this parable. "A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it, and found none.
7 He said to the vine dresser, 'Behold, these three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and found none. Cut it down. Why does it waste the soil?'
8 He answered, 'Lord, leave it alone this year also, until I dig around it, and fertilize it.
9 If it bears fruit, fine; but if not, after that, you can cut it down.'"