The Dogwood

The Legend of the Dogwood 

April 20, 2017

Once upon a time, centuries ago, there was a tall, very stately tree that lived in the Holy Land. Because of its hard, straight wood, it was a favorite of the Romans who governed the land.  

One dreadful day, the tree wept because strong spikes driven into it were being used to kill the One who had created it. Ashamed and mournful, the tree begged the Lord for mercy. 

Mindful of the tree's honorable heart, He blessed it with a short, twisted body so that it would never be used in this manner ever again. And in the spring of each year from m that day forward, the tree produced beautiful flowers to commemorate the death of the Lord. 

 

(The four petals represent the cross itself. 

The indentations on the petals' edges signify the places in His hands and feet that were penetrated by the nails. 

The rusty, red color of the indentations stands for the blood that He shed. 

And the center of the flower represents the crown of thorns that He wore.)

Forevermore this magnificent tree stands proudly in our land to remind us of the sacrifice of the Creator. 

Lord, I know this is just a legend, but I love it. The dogwoods are blooming everywhere right now and I think they are lovely. Thank you for the reminder of your sacrifice and of our salvation.