Olives and Olive branches

Scripture Reading

John 14:27
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Thoughts for Today

Peace is a gift, something tangible we can give each other, something we can receive from those around us. But the peace that Jesus gives is different from ours in one distinct way … it isn’t dependent upon fickle emotion, or changing circumstance. When Jesus gives you something, whatever gift it is, the difference between what He gives and what you may have had from anyone else is the lasting quality of His gifts. What Jesus gives is forever, and endures with unchanged quality. In the world of commerce, that would make it a very valuable and sought after commodity.
Do you wish to be given this kind of gift? Jesus is the exclusive source, but thankfully makes it universally available. And He never runs short.

Activity:

The olive branch is a symbol of peace. We often decorate our Christmas trees with doves because of this association with peace.

This is becauseÂ the gospel is the good news of peace with God and the Lord Jesus is the Prince of Peace.

Why not place reminders of the olive and the dove around your house? Make or buy some decorations representing the dove and the olive.

Learn a Few Things about Olive Trees

Try to find products made of olives (the fruit of the olive tree) and list their uses. It could surprise you!
Ever since Noah sent out the dove to see if life could resume on the earth, when the messenger returned with an olive branch it became our idea of reconciliation.
Olive oil is very healing, and the idea of peace is connected to our idea of well-being. Look into the olive’s history and uses, see what you can find out about modern science’s findings on how healthy olive products can be for you.