Kedron and Olives
After saying these things, Jesus crossed the Kidron Valley with his disciples and entered a grove of olive trees. John 18:1 (NLT)
In this passage, Jesus and His disciples make a transition that is deeply symbolic. First, they cross the Kidron Valley, a name related to the root Qeidár, which means “to be dark.” Immediately afterward, they enter a garden of olive trees, giving us the image of a place where oil is found and produced. This morning, I believe our lives are much the same: at times we must walk through Kidron valleys—dark seasons—but our destination is to arrive at a season where we encounter the oil of God.
- Kidron speaks of scarcity; the Olives speak of abundance.
The Kidron Valley was a dark place, often dry, associated with judgment and difficulty. But the olive grove is a place of provision. It is the source of oil, which throughout Scripture is a symbol of prosperity, blessing, and abundance.
- Kidron speaks of weariness; the Olives of rest.
Crossing a dark valley speaks of heat and exhaustion along life’s journey. In contrast, an olive garden is a place that offers trees, shade, and a place for rest and restoration.
- We cross the valley; we do not stay in it.
It is vital to notice that Jesus and the disciples crossed the valley. They did not camp there; they did not make their home there. Dark seasons—the Kidron valleys—are not our destination. They are only a temporary path toward the grove.
- The Olives lead us to the anointing.
Oil is the final product of the olive. Spiritually, oil always speaks of the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Even if we pass through a “Kidron valley” during the day, full of darkness or problems, we can still arrive at the place of anointing.
- We seek the oil after the valley.
During these 21 days of fasting and prayer, this principle is essential. Even if throughout the day you walk through your own dark valley, you can make the decision not to stay there, but to come at night to the intercession service at 7 p.m., to enter the “olive grove” and be refreshed with the anointing.
No matter how dark the valley may seem today, remember that it is not a permanent place; it is only a passage. God has promised that you will not be alone in that valley, as Psalm 23:4 says: “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me.” Keep walking, because the olive grove—the place of oil, rest, and anointing—is waiting for you just on the other side.
After saying these things, Jesus crossed the Kidron Valley with his disciples and entered a grove of olive trees. John 18:1 (NLT)
Think About It:
- Are you currently in a “Kidron valley,” feeling darkness or scarcity?
- What have you done to “camp” in the valley (complaining, giving up) instead of simply “crossing” it?
- What practical step will you take today to seek the “olive grove” (prayer, intercession service) and be refreshed by the anointing of God?