Devotional 12-15-21

The hymn The Holly and the Ivy is a traditional British folk carol dating back to the early 1800’s. Sir Henry Walford Davies wrote the popular choral arrangement we often hear at the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. 

Holly has been associated with Christmas since medieval times. The variety of holly found in Europe is sometimes called Christ’s thorn. The sharp leaves recall the crown of thorns placed on Jesus’ head. The red berries remind us of the drops of blood Christ shed for our salvation. The shape of the leaves, which resemble a flame, are a symbol of God’s burning love for His people (a strong symbol for United Methodists).  Because of its characteristic of clinging to various bushes, trees, and buildings, ivy can symbolize faithfulness, and connections of closeness, friendship, and love. Both plants maintain their green color during the Christmas season and were a mainstay of British Christmas decorations in churches since the 15th century.

The tradition of making and giving wreaths of holly dates to the Roman Empire and may have entered Christianity via St. Augustine. Over time, it was believed a holly wreath on the door would keep evil spirits away, as well as tax collectors! 

Some say the holly represents the Christ Child and the ivy represents his mother, Mary. 
In the evergreen leaves of these two plants, we remember the promise of everlasting life, embodied in a newborn baby. 

The holly bears a blossom,
As white as lily flower
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ,
To be our dear Saviour

The holly bears a berry,
As red as any blood,
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ,
To do poor sinners good

The holly bears a prickle,
As sharp as any thorn,
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ,
On Christmas Day in the morn

The holly and the ivy,
When they are both full grown,
Of all trees that are in the wood,
The holly bears the crown

Anita Gardner Farrell