Issue 1431 – Like a Dove – April 25, 2024
As I came into my home office this morning, I looked out the window towards the bird feeders. I was blessed to see a pair of doves alighting on the ground. It was a breathtaking sight. I couldn’t take a photo, but this one captures the moment well.
My first thought was of the baptism of Jesus. All four gospels record the event.
When Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him—Matthew 3:16 (see also Mark 1:10, Luke 3:22, John 1:32).
It’s a beautiful piece of imagery, but did you ever wonder why the Spirit came in that particular fashion? The Spirit doesn’t show up like a dove when we become believers and are indwelt. Allow me to offer a possible answer.
Part of the appearance must have been a public sign for all present. That makes sense. Still, why a dove?
Here’s an interesting connection: the dove, a symbol of peace and purity, is also an acceptable sacrificial animal. This adds a deeper dimension to its appearance during Jesus’ baptism, doesn’t it?
“… to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” Matthew 12:21 (see also Mark 11:15, Luke 2:24, John 2:14, 16)
We are told that Jesus came to take away the world’s sins. To do that, He had to be sinless and entirely acceptable to God. Had Jesus not been sinless, His sacrifice would have been in vain. The Spirit confirms His acceptance.
The same Holy Spirit that descended on Jesus in a visible form lives in every believer. We are tied together with Him. That’s a beautiful thought.
The next time you see or hear a dove, Stop and remember the things that tie all true believers together and give Him glory.
Be blessed
Hallelu Yah / Praise God
Kevin
Gleanings From The Word
Experience an extraordinary God in ordinary life.
Soli Deo Gloria (For the glory of God alone)
Never let the enemy tell you that you are worthless or insignificant. Your value in God’s eyes is so great that it was worth dying for. You are a blessing to the world. You are so precious to God that his plan for heaven will not be complete without you.
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Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references are from the English Standard Version (ESV)