The legend of the dogwood tree

In the South, one of the most BELOVED trees is the Dogwood tree.  Every spring, they bloom right around Easter.  I am often reminded of the “LEGEND OF THE DOGWOOD”. 

Legend has it that In Jesus’ time, the Dogwood tree grew as big as the mighty Oak tree. The Romans used this tree to build crosses (for crucifixion).  The narrative says that Jesus was crucified on a Dogwood tree.  After the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, the characteristics of the Dogwood tree changed.  Its branches became narrow and crooked, it’s trunk was much smaller and It never grew mighty like the Oak again.  The Dogwood tree would NEVER be used for crucifixion again and its flowering traits became a reminder of a Risen Savior and the Promise. 

See the tree in the picture below, but more importantly, see the Dogwood flower. The Dogwood flower has 4 petals, shaped like a cross. The middle of the Dogwood flower represents a crown of thorns.  The end of every pedal has a nail hole.  Around the rim of every nail hole is a crimson stain.

Whether this legend is true or not, it does NOT take away from what our Lord and Savior did for us on the cross. The miracle of His resurrection is still where we focus our energy and love. I am thankful he sent his son Jesus to redeem us.  He loves us regardless of who we are, where we came from or what we have done in our past.  All we have to do is accept the FREE GIFT of GOD with is Salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord.

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life". 

GOD Bless you and have a great day