Dogwood trees tell the story of Christ’s Crucifixion
The dogwood tree is one of my favorite trees. It is one of the first trees to bloom in the spring, it has a graceful form and delicate white or pink flowers, and it comes with its own legend.
Growing up in West Virginia the dogwood and the redbud trees were always the first trees to awaken and herald the advent of spring. It was a welcome site to see bright patches of pink and white splashed against the barren hills. It is said that the flower of the dogwood tells the story of the crucifixion with the nail holes visible on the ends of the petals stained with blood. The flower itself forms the shape of the cross and the crown of thorns wreath the center of the flower. One cannot look at the dogwood tree and not be reminded of the great sacrifice of our Lord.
The Legend of the Dogwood Tree
In Jesus’ time, the dogwood grew
To a stately size and a lovely hue.
‘Twas strong and firm, its branches interwoven. For the cross of Christ its timbers were chosen.
Seeing the distress at this use of their wood
Christ made a promise which still holds good:
“Never again shall the dogwood grow
Large enough to be used so.
Slender and twisted, it shall be
With blossoms like the cross for all to see.
As blood stains the petals marked in brown,
The blossom’s center wears a thorny crown.
All who see it will remember Me
Crucified on a cross from the dogwood tree.
Cherished and protected, this tree shall be
A reminder to all of My agony.”
Have a Blessed Easter
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- In the pink (bogsofohio.wordpress.com)
- Dogwood Tree Legend (gratitudeisanattitude.wordpress.com)
- http://bogsofohio.wordpress.com/2012/04/06/beyond-expectation/