On March 2, 2024, the women of the Tuebingen SDA church presented a program for the International Women’s Prayer Day entitled “Living Like an Olive Tree.” The various facets and characteristics of the olive tree were presented using all senses: taste (olives and olive oil); feeling and smell (olive oil body milk); sight (olive twigs and photos); and hearing (words and music).
The words of King David, in Psalm 52:8 “But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love forever and ever” invited the congregation to reflect on what we can learn from the olive tree for our lives. Many more Bible texts about olive trees were presented to illustrate some of the things we can learn from this tree:
Steadfastness, deep roots in God’s Word, reaching out to the sky, blossoming and bearing fruit at the appropriate time, and all this through God’s Grace. Just as the olive tree is useful in many ways, we can also be a blessing to others in our communities. We are called not to forget the Lord when we enjoy “A land with wheat and barley, vines and fig-trees, pomegranates, olive oil, and honey” (Deuteronomy 8:8, 12-14). It is God who gives prosperity and helps us withstand the storms.
Jesus told his disciples to “stand up and lift up your heads…) ‘Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near” (Luke 21,28, 31).
The olive twig is also a common symbol of peace. During these days with many parts of the world engaged in armed conflicts, we need peace more than ever. Jesus has promised to give us His peace even though we may live in difficult circumstances. In addition to many liturgical prayers, the congregation was invited to write their prayers on leaves and hang them on a tree at the front.
The whole program was developed by the Women’s Ministries leader and presented by the women of the church in German and Ukrainian.
See a video: Women's Prayer Day 2024