The Holy Spirit: The Dove

Sermon Notes: Thursday, Feb 26 & Sunday, Mar 1, 2026        

Universally the dove is a symbol for peace. Their gentle nature has led cultures across the ages to associate them with a nurturing spirit, peace, and love. In the Bible, a dove is the bearer of the hope. A dove came back to Noah in the ark with the branch of an olive tree, giving Noah the assurance that floods were ending and a promise of new life. Doves were part of the sacrificial system and were an acceptable offering in the temple. In Christianity, the dove is a symbol for the Holy Spirit (Luke 3:21-22).

Jesus’ Baptism was a Holy Trinity moment of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God’s voice for heaven affirmed that Jesus was the Son, in whom God was well pleased. The Holy Spirit came in the form of a dove. The Holy Spirit would later come in the form of tongues of fire and the sound of rushing wind. (Acts 2). Just as the Spirit was with Jesus at his baptism and the disciples at Pentecost, so we believe that the Holy Spirit continues to be with us. Take a moment and notice the Spirit with you. How is God affirming and empowering you today?

Journeying through Lent with you, Sherri