The Jesse Tree is unique for a couple of reasons. First, it's a daily devotion from November 30- December 25. Secondly, its purpose is to highlight the plan, purpose, and faithfulness of God in bringing Christ to earth that first Christmas beginning at creation and weaving its way through the Old Testament - always pointing to Jesus. And we always want to point to Jesus.
The main source I used is found at the Reformed Church of America's website. There, you'll find everything you need to make your tree. We still use the paper ones we colored and cut out that first year we did it, and tape them to a green tree we make out of construction paper.
But there are instructions/ideas on the site to make fancier ornaments and something more than a construction paper tree if you want.
I think you'll find this activity a beautiful, conversation starting activity. But just as an aside, let me say that my children aren't always excited about staying a little longer at the table to do this. They sometimes make it clear that they have places to go, and people to see. Let me encourage you to press on through any huffing and puffing or wiggly kids you have and put these truths before your kids. God promises in Isaiah 55:11 that his word will not return to him void.
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If you've done a Jesse Tree before, and have any thoughts or helps, I'd love to hear them and pass them along. As I finish, know that I publish this post with a prayer for you, my readers - that this Christmas will be more full of Christ than any you've known before.
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| There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit. Isaiah 11:1 |
Thanks Shelley! This looks like a great thing to start with my little family. :)
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