Advent is just around the corner! The First Sunday of the Advent Season is on November 27th.
Have you noticed how many times trees are mentioned, throughout the Bible? From the Garden of Eden, to the burning bush and Moses, olive trees, fig trees, and so many more.
There is something special about trees, isn’t there? Starting out, so very small. Roots that push their way into the soil for nourishment. The tiniest sprout that reaches out to the warmth of the sun. When grown, they’re sturdy, and large. Providing shade for those under them. Offering us fruits, or nuts, saps, and oils. Their limbs, constantly stretching to the heavens, can also be entertainment for the young, and shelter to different creatures. All while asking nothing in return. They’re entire existence is about giving, and never demanding anything.
What does a tree have to do with Advent?
While Advent is about the time leading up to the birth of Christ; his family history can be found throughout the Bible. Actually, we can follow the story of the coming of Christ all the way back to the Old Testament. Isaiah says “A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.”
The Jesse Tree, is essentially the family tree of Jesus Christ, starting with Jesse.
The coming of the Messiah, has been mentioned through out the Bible. The physical Jesse Tree, with its ornaments, represent each mention of his coming. A way of showing the biblical anticipation!
By partnering the Advent celebration, and the Advent wreath, with the Jesse Tree we are able to celebrate this Advent season with both the the seasonal importance, and the historical importance.
