In our search to simplify the Christmas season we decided to do the Jesse Tree devotional for the month of December. The Jesse Tree idea comes from this verse in Isaiah 11:1, "A shoot will spring forth from the stump of Jesse, and a branch out of it's roots". Basically it is a way to tell the stories of God's faithfullness in the Old Testament and how they lead the way and connect to the coming of Jesus in the New Testament. It's simple.
It's family oriented.
It tells a beautiful story.
Here's what we do:
1) We make a Jesse Tree. We opted for a paper tree to hang on the wall (hand made by Karis!). Others make trees out of branches from real trees of even just do it on a Christmas tree.
2) Download the devotions that were written by the RCA.
3) Download the pictures that were also created by the RCA.
4) Each day starting November 30 spend a few minutes with your family reading the story. Have your children color the picture, cut it out and glue it on the tree.
In my mind this is so much more meaningful than the Hannah Montana Advent Calendar (yes they call it an Advent Calendar) that they sell at Walmart.
If you haven't decided on an Advent family activity for this year yet give this a try. If you have a tradition or other activity that you would like to share with me please do. In the midst of the chaotic consumerism of Christmas it's refreshing to stop and enjoy some family time.
PS Yes, Karis is attempting to CLIMB the Jesse Tree!
1 comment:
Hey! Thanks so much for this idea and links Robin!
We're going to try this out! And it starts on my birthday!!! :D
Start with Christy's bday and end on Christ's bday! rofl. sorry. bad bad humour on my part. :p
But this is great for me, especially since i haven't managed to crack much of the beautiful scrappy bible i own.
Anywho, it's late and i'm barely coherent..lol.
THANKYOU! :D
C
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