The Dove

Written by Power to Change Ministries

Description

As he is dragged by the soldiers to the commencement of his trial, Jesus looks up and sees a dove flapping its wings overhead.  The sight appears to strengthen and comfort him.

Symbolism

Doves and turtle-doves were the only birds that could be offered in sacrifice, as they were clean according to the Mosaic Law (Genesis 15:9; Leviticus 5:7, 12:6; Luke 2:24). The dove is an emblem of peace (Genesis 8:8,10), purity (Psalm 68:13

), and devoted affection (Song of Songs 1:15, 2:14).  But above all, it’s a symbol of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:2; Matthew 3:16; Mark 1:10; Luke 3:22; John 1:32).  The sight of the dove would have reminded Jesus of the presence of God’s Holy Spirit. It would have also reminded him of the love of his Father – and that his Father was pleased with his self-sacrificial obedience.

The script

Matthew 3:16

As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him.

Luke 3:22

And the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”

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