The Legend of the Dogwood Tree

Legend has it that the cross on which Jesus was crucified was made from a dogwood tree ~~~

  

 At the time of the crucifixion, the dogwood had reached the size of the mighty oak tree.  So strong and firm was the wood that it was chosen as the timber for Jesus’ cross. 

To be used for such a cruel purpose greatly distressed the dogwood.  While nailed upon it, Jesus sensed this, and in His compassion said, “Because of your pity for my suffering, never again shall the dogwood tree grow large enough to be used for a cross.  Henceforth, it shall be slender, bent and twisted, and its blossoms shall be in the form of a cross – two long and two short petals. 

“In the center of the outer edge of each petal will be the print of nails. In the center of the flower, stained with blood, will be the cross of thorns so that all who see it will remember.”

 

To me, there are no more beautiful blossoms than of a dogwood tree.  Whether or not the legend of the dogwood is true … I don’t really know.  However I do know that this tree’s flowers are a beautiful reminder of Jesus sacrificing His life for my sins.   So the dogwood is more than just a tree … it’s a representation of my eternal life through Jesus Christ.