There is a tale about how the dogwood flower represents Jesus.  The four petals symbolize the cross with the middle mirror the crown of thorns that He was painfully forced to wear.  Each petal has a stain on the edge representing the blood stains Jesus took to the cross.  It is white - as we can be - when we "put on" the sacrifice and salvation that was bought for us through Jesus.  I love the reminder and have contemplated the likenesses reminding me of my precious Jesus.  

This photo was taken in the rain!  The drop of water, so clear and so fresh also reminds me of the washing that He can do in our heart when we simply ask Him to forgive our sins!  It requires surrender.  When I decided to give my life to the Him, I was at a church camp where everyone was singing the old hymn, "I Surrender All".  I remember suddenly realizing that I needed - and wanted - that cleansing!  I freely gave my heart to Him in a single moment and was able to lift my hands and sing, "All to Thee my blessed Savior, I surrender all!"

My life has never been the same!  I will ever joy in the blessed hope I received that night - and I invite you to do the same, if you need to be washed and free!!

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life."  John 3:16