“Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its young shoots become tender and it puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near;

“Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: as soon as its branch becomes tender and it puts out its leaves, you recognize that summer is near.

Because of the tender mercy of our God,
With which the Sunrise (the Messiah) from on high will dawn and visit us,

Be merciful (responsive, compassionate, tender) just as your [heavenly] Father is merciful.

Now we who are strong [in our convictions and faith] ought to [patiently] put up with the weaknesses of those who are not strong, and not just please ourselves.

For God is my witness, how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus [whose great love fills me].