Where Does the Christmas Tree Come From?

It comes from the Old Testament of the Bible!

The Book of Isaiah Chapter 11 "A shoot will spring forth from the stump of Jesse, and a branch out of his roots." What does this mean?

The Jesse Tree Jesse was a noble and respected Jew who had eight sons

God chose one of Jesse’s sons to become the king of Israel and his kingdom. The son he chose, David, became a great leader of God’s kingdom. During David’s reign the people of Israel were very happy and successful.

But… After David’s reign the people of Israel became very unhappy. Many bad things happened to them. They had to leave their land and become slaves in Egypt.

God’s Promise “A shoot will spring forth from the stump of Jesse, and a branch out of his roots” God makes a promise that another king, like King David, will come from Jesse’s family and he will lead His people to happiness.

Did God keep His promise? Yes! This king was born in Bethlehem and we celebrate his birthday every Christmas. God kept His promise when he sent His Son to live among us. This king is Jesus.

The Jesse Tree We now use the Jesse tree during Advent to remember God’s promise to his people.

The Jesse Tree The Jesse Tree is used to show Jesus’ family tree. What is a family tree?

Family tree Granny and Granddad Auntie Mammy Uncle CousinsMe Brother SisterCousins

During Advent On each day of Advent a story is told in mass about how God prepared us for His Kingdom. These are stories about the people from Jesus’ family tree. Which stories do you think are told?

Adam and Eve Noah’s Ark

Decorations Decorations are made from these stories and are then hung on the Jesse tree This week we will make our own decorations for our Jesse tree