This post is part of a month-long series at DoNotDepart.com, The Symbols of Christmas. Of all the symbols, a favorite for me is the evergreens. Whether found in garland, wreaths, or swags, the deep green reminds me of God’s ever-present, never-ending love for me.
Among the types of Christmas greenery, Christmas holly takes on special meaning, reminding Believers of Jesus’ sacrifice– God’s perfect gift.
The lyrics of the Christmas carol, The Holly and the Ivy (18th century), explain the symbolism of the Christmas Holly. If you’d like to listen to the carol as you read, press, “play” below. Song and scripture will be our guide today.
According to the carol, several parts of the holly point to Jesus: the blossom, the berry, the “prickle”, and the bark.
The Blossom
“The holly bears a blossom
As white as lily flower
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To be our sweet Saviour.”
The Berry
“The holly bears a berry
As red as any blood
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To do poor sinners good.”
The “Prickle”
“The holly bears a prickle
As sharp as any thorn;
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
On Christmas Day in the morn.”
The Bark
“The holly bears a bark
As bitter as any gall;
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
For to redeem us all.”
God’s Perfect Gift
Thank you for joining me in reflecting on the symbolism of Christmas holly. May you be reminded of God’s perfect gift throughout the Christmas season.
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