…and the Ivy

In the Christmas carol The Holly and The Ivy the characteristics of the holly reference our Savior Jesus Christ. The ivy is barely mentioned at all!

I’ve given this a bit of thought and wonder if there is a lesson to be gleaned from this. The vast majority of the carol refers to the holly. Only the smallest snippet is given to the ivy.

I’ve read all about the pagan rituals and symbolism of holly and ivy and the contest between men and women. But I’ve got another take on this carol and its inclusion of the ivy. Maybe, this song lends itself to offer a deeper message.

 What if we are the ivy?

Ivy requires support if it is to climb higher.  It is often found clinging to man-made walls or trees. It can’t reach any height on its own.Ivy has three “points” to its leaf. Father, Son and…