Genesis 8:11 When the dove returned to him in the evening,
there in its beak was a freshly plucked olive leaf! Then Noah knew that the
water had receded from the earth.
It has become a universal symbol of peace throughout the
world. Images of a dove with an olive branch in its mouth are still used by the
United Nations and other international peace organizations. Most people know
that it represents a human yearning for peace throughout the world, but some
folks forget that it was first described in the Noah story from Genesis. In
other words, it’s not just a universal symbol for peace, it’s a God-given sign
of restoration.
As the waters from the Great Flood receded, Noah needed
to know that dry land was emerging, so that he could safely take his family
ashore. The immense rains had fallen for forty days and it would take 110 more
days before the Ark came to rest on Mount Ararat. This means that Noah, his
family, and most of the animals spent almost half a year on the Ark before they
could return to the land. The storms were over, but the long wait for the flood
to recede must have seemed like an eternity to each living being on board.
When the dove came back to Noah with an olive branch, he
knew in his heart that God’s wrath was over and that peace between God and man
was now possible. From that biblical moment in time, the dove has represented
God’s presence and the olive branch is a peace offering. Today, on the United
Nations flag, our planetary globe is cupped in a half circle of olive leaves, symbolizing
the future hope that one day we will live in peace.
Points to ponder
Where do we currently need peace in the world? How
often am I willing to pray for peace?
Prayer: Lord
Jesus, You are the Prince of Peace, so we earnestly ask You to send forth Your
Holy Spirit to those parts of our world where war and violence are sadly taking
place. Allow Your Church to act as peacemaker throughout the nations and give
us the ability to embrace peace in our homes, communities, and nation. In Your
Holy Name, we pray. Amen.
Today’s image is one of John’s
Celtic Cross drawing called Siochain – the Gaelic word for peace. If you would
like to view a larger version, please click on this link: Cross.
John Stuart is the pastor
of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. The church website can be
viewed here: www.erinpresbyterian.org.
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