Legend
Of The 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 a crown of thorns so that all
who see it will remember.”
Raindrops
cascade like teardrops on blossoms of a beautiful pink dogwood tree on a May evening
in Allentown, Pennsylvania.