Think of the scenario from today’s theme verses. Noah and his family had been on the ark, living in cramped quarters among the noisy, smelly animals for almost a year. Oh, how they longed to be off the ark and out in the fresh air and sunshine once again. A week prior, Noah had sent out a dove to see if there was any sign of dry land, but the dove found none. This time, however, the dove returns with a new leaf from an olive branch. Can you imagine the excitement the family must have felt? Finally, there were signs of new life! 

The olive tree is mentioned often throughout the Bible, with this being the first reference. It is a slow-growing tree that requires years of patient labor to bear to its fullest potential, and it plays a vital role in the region’s economy. The olive tree is a symbol of peace, restoration, beauty, and abundance. This is what Noah and his family saw and felt when the olive leaf was brought to them by the dove.

Have you ever been in that dark and barren place where you felt life had passed you by? Do you sometimes feel you are drifting along in life with no true purpose? In Romans 11 we, the Gentiles, are referred to as wild olive trees with weak roots that have been grafted into the roots of the cultivated olive trees, with Christ being our source of life. He has offered each of us peace, restoration, beauty, and abundance in him. Reach out your hand and receive the olive branch that the Lord is offering you.

Querido Padre Celestial,

I thank You for this beautiful picture of my life grafted in with Yours. I am in awe that You, the King of kings, would make me one with You, through Your Son. I am so grateful for the peace, restoration, beauty, and abundance that You offer to me and all that concerns me. Lord, please help me to receive all that You offer, that I may truly walk in such close intimacy with You, that I follow the path You have set before me. May I be a witness to others as I follow You daily. I love and adore You, Father. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Read Psalm chapter 27, then spend some intimate time with the Lord today, seeking His face and the olive branch He extends to you. Receive His peace, restoration, beauty, and abundance in your life, the lives of your family, and all those who witness your life in Christ.