What is the Jesse Tree and How to Implement It This Advent with Children

Advent is a season of anticipation, a time to prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus at Christmas. One of the most meaningful ways to deepen this preparation with your family is through the Jesse Tree, a beautiful tradition that traces the story of salvation history and connects it to the coming of Christ.

What is the Jesse Tree?

The Jesse Tree is a visual way to reflect on Jesus’ family tree, beginning with creation and leading to His birth. It gets its name from Isaiah 11:1, which says, “A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” Jesse, the father of King David, represents the lineage from which Jesus came.

Each day during Advent, a specific Bible story is highlighted, representing a step in God’s plan for salvation. Symbols or ornaments are hung on the Jesse Tree to represent key figures and events, such as Adam and Eve, Noah, Moses, Ruth, and finally, the birth of Jesus.

Why Implement the Jesse Tree?

The Jesse Tree is a powerful teaching tool that:

Deepens Understanding: It connects Old Testament prophecies and stories to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ.
Engages Children: Through hands-on activities like crafting ornaments or coloring, kids are immersed in the story of salvation in an age-appropriate way.
Fosters Family Bonding: It creates a daily opportunity for prayer, Scripture reading, and meaningful conversation during Advent.

How to Implement the Jesse Tree This Advent

Here are some practical steps to start this tradition with your family:

Choose a Jesse Tree Format
- Tree Options: Use a real tree branch, a small artificial tree, or a printed tree on poster board or fabric.
- Ornaments: Create your own using paper, felt, or wood, or download pre-made printable ornaments for easy preparation.

Gather Your Scripture Readings
Each day highlights a specific story or person in salvation history. Commonly used Scripture passages include:
- Creation (Genesis 1:1-31): Symbol – Earth or sun.
- Noah (Genesis 6:11-22): Symbol – Ark or rainbow.
- Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3): Symbol – Stars.
- Moses (Exodus 3:1-12): Symbol – Burning bush.
- David (1 Samuel 16:1-13): Symbol – Crown.
- Mary (Luke 1:26-38): Symbol – Lily.
- Jesus (Luke 2:1-20): Symbol – Nativity or manger.

Many Jesse Tree guides include daily Scripture readings, reflections, and prayers.

Engage with the Ornaments
Each day, read the Scripture passage and let your child hang the corresponding ornament on the tree.
- Interactive Activities: Include a coloring page or craft to create the ornament before hanging it.
- Reflection Questions: Discuss what the story teaches about God’s plan and how it points to Jesus.

Incorporate Prayer
Conclude each Jesse Tree activity with a prayer, thanking God for His promises and the gift of Jesus.

Adapt to Your Family’s Needs
- Simplify: If daily activities feel overwhelming, focus on one Jesse Tree story per week.
- Blend with Other Traditions: Use the Jesse Tree as part of your nightly Advent prayers or alongside an Advent wreath.

Jesse Tree Printable Resources

To make implementing this tradition easier, we’ve created a Jesse Tree Ornament Printable Set! It includes ready-to-color and pre-designed ornaments along with suggested Scripture readings and reflections. Simply print, cut, and hang to bring the Jesse Tree to life in your home.

Why the Jesse Tree Matters

The Jesse Tree is more than an Advent craft; it’s a way to connect our hearts and minds to the story of Jesus. By walking through salvation history, we’re reminded of God’s faithfulness and His ultimate plan to bring us into His family through Christ.

This Advent, let the Jesse Tree guide your family into a deeper relationship with God, helping you anticipate and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

How will you implement the Jesse Tree this Advent? Share your ideas and experiences below!