Day 10 – At the Jordan: The Spirit Came Like a Dove

“Like a dove” the Spirit descended down from heaven upon Him at His baptism. The dove is a particularly appropriate symbol because it is graceful bird. In Matthew 10:16, Jesus told His disciples to be “as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.” The word dove implies a guileless, open book, “what you see is what you get” heart attitude. Applied to the Holy Spirit, it means that the Spirit Himself is pure, open and honest, and He produces the same qualities in the people He touches. As the dove descended from heaven, even so the Holy Spirit comes down from heaven to bless the people of the earth. Note that the dove rested on Christ, symbolizing the peace that the Holy Spirit brings.

The fact that the dove came directly to Christ shows the personal relationship the Holy Spirit has with each believer.

In the end, the dove resting on Christ shows the Father’s divine approval of the Son’s purpose on the earth. Immediately when the dove rested on Christ the voice spoke and said: “This my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17)

The Trinity was present at the baptism of Jesus. This symbol of the Holy Spirit has a great deal to teach us about the effect of the Holy Spirit on our lives. When the Holy Spirit comes: (1) He brings peace to our souls; (2) He comes quietly, without fanfare; (3) He establishes a personal relationship with us; (4) He produces gentleness within, not a harsh and critical spirit; (5) He leads us toward purity, honesty, and a truly “harmless” life; (6) He brings God’s divine approval that we are indeed His children; (7) He leads us toward a beautiful, grace filled Christian life.

Dr. Isaac Watts wrote a song based on this text called “Come, Holy Spirit, Heavenly Dove” and 300 years later we still sing it.

Come, Holy Spirit, heavenly Dove

With all Thy quick’ning powers;

Come, shed abroad the Savior’s love

And that shall kindle ours.

Come now Spirit of the living God descend from heaven on us like You did on Jesus that we may be full of Your power. Amen.