As the time of the crucifixion the legend goes, the tree was the size of the oak and other forest trees. So firm and strong was the tree that it's timber was chosen for a cross. Being used for such a cruel purpose and having Jesus nailed to it distressed the tree. Jesus sensed this ; and in His pity for all sorrow and suffering , said to it: " Because of your regret and pity for my suffering , never again shall the dogwood grow large enough to be used as a cross. Henceforth it shall be slinder and bent and twisted , and it's blossoms shall be in the form of a cross- two long and to short petals.

      "And in the center of the outer edge of each petal there shall be nail prints, brown and rust and stained with red, and in the center of the flower will be a crown of thorns and all who see it will remember....that it was upon a dogwood tree that I was crucified, and this tree shall not be mutilated or destroyed but cherished as a reminder of my death upon the cross.

      I have a recording of this which is probably over 40 yrs old. I forget the guys name who did the reading . It really makes you think. I hope you enjoy reading this it brings me back to to my childhood memories and the time in which I got to know Jesus on a personal level After I heard about the dogwoods story I never forgot it. The love of Jesus is beyond compare, he even took pity upon a tree. Oh what a loving Father we have. I'm sitting here crying ,oh how he loved all of mankind.

      How can mankind turn from Him who has given nothing but love?

      I grew up in the hills of Ky. where dogwoods are so plentiful . I cherish my memories of romping and running through some of the the most beautiful creations God left on earth for all of us to enjoy. Just think if we think these things are of such beauty the best is yet to come! Enjoy what God created just for You and for me....Lola

      From Lola Conley's devotional...to subscribe, contact Lola at: LolaConley@aol.com

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