The Jesse Tree is a popular Advent tradition that helps families and individuals reflect on the story of Jesus’ ancestry and the events leading to his birth. This unique and meaningful tree gets its name from the Bible, where Jesse, the father of David, is mentioned as the ancestor of Jesus (Isaiah 11:1). With each ornament added daily to the tree throughout Advent, a new story is revealed, connecting participants with their spiritual roots.
In this article, we will guide you through the steps to create your own Jesse Tree so that you can experience this uplifting tradition in your home.

1. Choose a tree or branch
You can either make your Jesse Tree as a tabletop decoration using a small potted plant or miniature artificial tree or hang it on a wall using sturdy branches. If you choose to use branches, make sure they are strong enough to hold your ornaments securely and have several smaller branches for hanging.

2. Gather or create Jesse Tree ornaments

There are two options for creating ornaments for your Jesse Tree – you can either purchase them or make them yourself.

– Purchasing ornaments: Many Christian bookstores and online retailers sell ready-made Jesse Tree ornament sets. These usually consist of symbols representing different Bible stories relevant to Jesus’ genealogy.

– Making ornaments: Creating your own ornaments adds a personal touch and allows for family bonding time. You can use materials like felt, wood, paper, or clay to craft symbolic representations of each day’s story. Some popular symbols include Noah’s Ark, Abraham’s tent, Moses’ tablets of law, and the Star of Bethlehem.

3. Create a list of daily themes

You will need to assign each ornament to a specific day during Advent, which usually begins on December 1st and ends on December 24th. Create a list based on the stories depicted by your chosen ornaments. This list will also help you allot scripture readings or meditations for each day.

4. Prepare daily scripture readings

For each day during Advent, you will read a Bible passage associated with the story of the ornament chosen for that day. Your scripture readings should be in chronological order, tracing the lineage and events that lead to the birth of Jesus. You can find many Jesse Tree reading plans online or create your own by carefully researching the scriptures related to your ornaments’ symbols.

5. Set up your Jesse Tree

Place your tree or branch at a designated spot in your home, ideally where it is visible and easily accessible for daily hangings.

6. Invite family or friends to participate

Encourage family members or friends to gather around the tree and participate in this meaningful tradition. Designate a person to read the scripture of the day, and encourage discussions or prayers related to that reading.

7. Hang ornaments daily

Each day, pick an ornament from your collection based on your list of daily themes and place it on your Jesse Tree while reading its corresponding scripture passage. As you add a new ornament every day, you’ll see your Jesse Tree grow into a beautiful tribute to Jesus’ ancestry and his story.

Creating a Jesse Tree is an engaging and fulfilling way to connect with the faith during Advent. Not only will it serve as a visual reminder of Jesus’ roots, but it also provides an opportunity for reflection on our spiritual heritage leading up to Christmas.