Day 1

A new little tree will grow from its stump. From its roots a Branch will grow and produce fruit. At that time the man who is called the Root from Jesse's family line will be like a banner that brings nations together.
-Isaiah 11:10

PAUSE: The definition of advent is "the arrival of a notable person". As we use the advent calendar for Christmas, we know that we are talking about the MOST notable person, Jesus. The true reason for Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
 
For Jesus to come to earth as a man he came through an earthly birth as we all do. Jesus was born into an earthly family that descended from Jesse. This verse in Isaiah is a promise from God in the Old Testament that he would be sending a Savior through Jesse's family, a family full of messes.
 
The analogy of the branch is a beautiful one. Just as a new branch buds and eventually grows into a beautiful healthy tree, we too can grow and be made whole through Jesus!

DISCUSSION: What significance is in the fact that Jesus was born from a family full of messes? Have you ever gotten bored with the story of Jesus birth? Why? What can you do to be filled with awe in this Advent season?

PRAY: Thank you God for your promise and plan to send your son Jesus to save us. Open our hearts to know more of you through the story of the birth of Jesus.

ACTIVITY: Advent tree & ornaments - Get your current tree or an additional tree ready! Involve your kiddos as much as possible. If you don’t already have Advent ornaments you can take this time to craft or find an ornament that corresponds with today’s content - The Root of Jesse. Then hang your first ornament on the tree.

Family memories - Look through keepsakes, pictures, and share stories of your parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents!