Last year we started a tradition that I hope is here to stay--the Jesse Tree. The concept of the Jesse tree is based on the scripture in Isaiah 11, "Out of the stump of David's family will grow a shoot--yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root." Beginning the first Sunday of Advent, we read one scripture passage a day and hang a corresponding ornament on our tree. The scriptures trace the story of redemption from Creation to Incarnation with every story foreshadowing Christ's coming and God's glorious rescue plan for you and for me.
This year as I prepared for Advent with Nathanael and the kids, I was thrilled to find that one of my favorite bloggers, Ann Voskamp of A Holy Experience, was offering a free, downloadable book of Jesse Tree readings, devotions, and ornaments. All the more special because I had used my birthday money earlier this year to purchase an Advent-to-Lent-to-Ascension Wreath handmade by her son Caleb.I've been waiting months to place this beautiful creation on my table and begin the journey. . . a journey that spirals out beyond the Incarnation to the Cross. Bethlehem is but one incredible stop along the way as we follow the Light. It is at the Cross that God "rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins" (Colossians 1:13).
And so we begin, with lighting and listening and looking for Him.
Come, Thou long-expected Jesus!
For more information and directions for obtaining A Jesus Advent Celebration by Ann Voskamp and Nancy Rodden, click here.
1 comment:
Yes, the piece of handcrafted art that Caleb did is just beautiful! I'm glad you are getting to use it after waiting all these months. Love you, Mom
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