Saturday Poetry Corner: The Holly And The Ivy

 

"But about the Son He says, "Your throne, O God, endures forever
 and ever, and justice is the scepter of Your kingdom."
(Isaiah 9:6)

The Birth Of Our Lord Jesus Christ

(1886-1894)

James Tissot

(1836-1902)

French painter

Image courtesy/ Brooklyn Museum

"Life of Christ" Exhibit

The Holly and The Ivy,

When they are both full grown

Of all the trees are in the wood,

The Holly bears the crown.

O the rising of the sun,

And the running of the deer,

The playing of the merry organ,

Sweet singing in the choir.

The Holly bears a blossom

As white as any flower;

And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ

To be our sweet Savior.

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 in the morn.

The Holly bears a bark

As bitter as any gall;

And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ

For to redeem us all.

The Holly and the Ivy

Now both are full well grown:

Of all the trees are in the wood

The Holly bears the crown.

Fifteenth-century English carol