The Fragrant Olive

We have the most deliciously scented tree growing on our back deck. This Fragrant Olive, also called Osmanthus fragrans or Sweet Olive, has been blooming non-stop since we rescued it from a place in our garden for which it wasn’t well suited. It had been struggling for a few years before we moved it, but now, obviously, it’s flourishing. I’m so glad Keith found the huge 42” pot to put it in, strategically placing it behind his lounger so the sweet perfume would waft on each breeze, wrapping it softly, gently over us as we rest in that place. The Sunset Western Garden Book states that its “flowers are powerfully fragrant, with a sweet scent like that of ripe apricots.” I’m not so sure about the smell of ripe apricots, but I do wish someone would develop a way to include odors and scents in our photos so you could see for yourself how lovely it smells.

What a perfect picture of Psalm 52:8, which says, “But I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God’s unfailing love for ever and ever.”

Lord Jesus, thank you for transplanting us into your house: the house of God. Thank you for your unfailing, never-ending love, which causes us to flourish. May we be a sweet fragrance wherever we go, drawing others to find rest in you.