Revised Preface

As we celebrated Easter Sunday today, I found myself thinking of the beautiful Dogwood trees that are beginning to come into bloom especially in the South.

So I decided I would send out the story for some who may not be familiar with it. One of the most unique stories that are handed down in the South is the story of the Dogwood Tree.

I do hope you enjoy the tale as much as I still do.

He is Risen! Happy Easter to all!

The Legend of the Dogwood Tree

The legend holds that the tree was once very large, like a Great Oak Tree, and because its wood was strong and sturdy, it provided building material for a variety of purposes.

According to the story, it was the Dogwood tree that provided the wood used to build the Cross on which Jesus was crucified.

Because of its role in the Crucifixion, it is said that God both cursed and blessed the tree. It was cursed to forever be small, so that it would never grow large enough again for its wood to be used as a cross for a crucifixion. It’s branches would be narrow and crooked — not good for building at all.

At the same time, however, the tree was blessed so that it would produce beautiful flowers each spring, just in time for Easter.

To remember God’s promise to the tree it is said he gave it a few traits so that whoever looks upon it will never forget.

The petals of the Dogwood actually form the shape of a cross. Upon close examination, it can be seen that the blooms of the tree always have four petals.

The middle of the Dogwood flower has a tight golden center groupings that resemble a “Crown of Thorns,” and the tips of each of the petals are indented, as if they bear a nail dent.

There are even colors in the petals that bring to mind the drops of blood that spilled during the Crucifixion.

So that is what is known as The Legend of the Dogwood.

The LORD is saying, “Many of my family have been very silent on this Silent Saturday. Some are very busy and yet others are finding themselves at a loss for words as they watch the desperation of so much of those in the world.

I say to you, Declare this day that there is a new beauty for the eye of the beholder coming forth, and it will be known from the day forth as The Resurrection of the ‘Beauty of Holiness’.

I declare to you, that I AM placing before you a unique new Vision of Truth and I AM enabling you to embrace it with your whole heart.

It shall seem like a miracle, but actually it is a sudden breakthrough of revelation that has been hidden from your sight by the clouds of disappoint and desperation for answers,” says The LORD of all.

“But just as I AM risen, so shall arise with greater expectation and joy than you ever dreamed of.

It is the bold announcement that will be written on you heart this day to let the music begin as you step into the New Ere with a song in your heart,” says The Risen Lord.

Go ahead — sing your new song to The LORD! Let everyone in every language sing him a new song. (Psalm 96:1 TPT).

“Come, worship The LORD God wearing the splendor of holiness. Let everyone wait in wonder as they tremble in awe before him.

Tell the nations plainly that Yahweh rules over all! He is doing a great job, and nothing will disrupt Him, for He treats everyone fair and square.

Let the skies sing for Joy! Let the earth join in the chorus. Let oceans thunder and fields echo this ecstatic praise until every swaying tree of every forest joins in, lifting up their songs of joyous praise to Him!

For here He comes, The LORD God, and he’s ready to judge the world. He will do what’s right and can be trusted to always do what’s fair,” Psalm 96:9-13 TPT.

You have been created in the image of Jesus Christ, The LORD who is Holy.

We are called to walk in holiness as He is Holy. It is the calling of every Christian to live a holy life.

God is Love. Love is the foundation of Holiness. Our obedience motivated out of love yields Holiness.

Won’t you come and bow down and worship Him in The Spirit of Holiness and Truth as we celebrate His resurrection and life?

Holiness : means “to be set apart or consecrated, sanctified”.

First published: April 17, 2022.

~ Sandi Holman

---

Sandi Holman was called to the nations as an End-Time Handmaiden in 1984 with Gwen Shaw and served with YWAM Singapore and YWAM Charlotte in missions. Sword of The LORD Ministries came from a divine encounter with The LORD when He came into her prayer room and said, “I have come to put a sword in your hand and was given special instructions on how and when to use it.” She is an author, Prophetic Intercessor and Seer, Chaplain, Teacher, Speaker and Equipper, and Blogger who has also served as a Pastor Online with Beyond the Veil Ministries.

Back to Top