January 1

The Holly and the Ivy

by Mary Baron                                                                                

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z69hWX97dlg

Some say The Holly and the Ivy represent pagan signs of Yule, but the simple lyrics teach the gospel message in the symbolism of the evergreen holly.

The first verse tells us holly bears a crown. We see the royal Prince of Peace stepping down into humanity at Christmas. Next, we are reminded of the white blossom representing purity and innocence. Matthew tells us Mary will bear a Son, call His name Jesus for He will save His people from their sins. He is our pure, sinless Savior.

The song goes on to mention the berry as red as the blood of Christ, a sacrifice at Passover. Ephesians says in Jesus Christ we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. Jesus’ sacrifice does poor sinners good. In the next verse, we look at the sharp prickled leaf as a symbol of the crown of thorns, a reminder of how the soldiers mocked the King of kings.

Then it is the bark as bitter as gall—gall mixed with wine offered to Jesus on the cross. His suffering was to redeem us all. Galatians tells us Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us. The final verse returns to holly bearing a crown. Christ’s resurrection is the victory that brings Him back to the throne of the forever kingdom. He is the blessing for the whole world. Good news!