Sunday, June 10, 2012

I'm not a really big fan of olives. Maybe black olives, but probably more for the nostalgia of olives on fingers than the actual taste. As for green, yuck. And what's a pimento anyway, and why would someone want to eat one?!

I was reading through Psalm 58 the other day and came upon this in verse about those who trust in God: But I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God. I trust in God's unfailing love forever and ever.  [verse 8]

For someone who doesn't like olives this is a mixed blessing. Who wants to be like an olive tree?

So I did a little research. The olive tree has played a prominent role in the life of Israel for thousands of years. According to www.pray4zion.org, the olive tree is a source for "food, light, hygiene and healing." It's oil was used to light the night, for cooking and for anointing.

Olive trees grow in almost any condition, whether in rocky terrain or fertile farm land. They are incredibly hardy trees that are virtually indestructible. It was an olive branch that a dove, released by Noah after the flood, returned to the ark. Which means that at least one olive tree survived the flood.

To extend an olive branch is to offer peace. It is symbolic of the covenant relationship that we share with God through Jesus Christ. The Prince of Peace has offered peace.

I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God. I am virtually indestructible. I can handle any trial that comes my way. I bless others. Not because of myself, of course, but because I trust in the unfailing love of God forever.

I still don't like olives.