Jesse Tree
The Jesse Tree
What is a Jesse Tree you might ask?
I asked the same thing when I first heard about it a few years ago. I had no idea it would become a holiday tradition for our family.
When I was a new mom, I had no clue about most everything. I still have much to learn, yet I desire to raise my children with a foundation for them to one day come to know and love Jesus too. I joined a MOPS group in our community and have learned so much from the other women. Our first Christmas with a child, I learned about the Jesse Tree. Named after Jesse, the father of King David.
In short, it is a small tree with 25 ornaments that tell the Christmas story. The story begins at creation and ends with the birth of Jesus. Each night (or every few nights if we get behind….which happens) we read a part of the story. The story has a Bible verse and matching ornament. There are prayers and applications that go along with the story.
It is like an advent calendar, but with a focus on the birth of Jesus. I love the imagery of a tree. It comes from the Old Testament prophesy from Isaiah chapter 11:1- 4. “A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse. From his roots a branch will bear fruit…”
It is a lovely physical decoration, conversation piece, and one of many ways to teach children about Jesus.
I have seen a few variations-
1. Paper ornaments
2. Felt ornaments
3. Wood ornaments
For the tree-
Branches collected from outdoors gathered in a vase
A small decorative tree that you purchase from a craft store.
You can order from other websites like etsy. It makes a lovely gift for families that have young children!
It is a tool, but not a standalone activity for the Christmas season. If you think it would work well for your family, give it a try! I wouldn’t add another “thing” to do just for the sake of doing it… seek Him and His ways for your family during the holidays {and always}.
I am a Jesus lover, wife, and mom. I reside in the beautiful state of Maryland and love the 4 seasons. I enjoy spending time outdoors and indoors with something to read. I started a career in education in 2005. I am a former public school teacher and school counselor. I continue to use those skills in other avenues. You can find me homeschooling, reading, and writing most days. I am an introvert. I have a Masters Degree in School counseling from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelors Degree in education from Towson University. I enjoy writing primarily as a creative outlet. Some experiences that I went through after having my third child and hosting our third child led me to want to not only write, but to share some of my thoughts with others. I desire to share ideas and information that may be helpful.
Be well dear friends!
~Renee
