Sunday, December 02, 2012

A post a day--Dec. 2

Last night we started our Jesse tree tradition.  In former years, we have used the free Advent readings by Ann Voskamp, but every year (although I enjoy them) I feel like they are over our kids' heads.  This year I decided I wanted to use stories from our beloved Jesus Storybook Bible instead . . . although they won't all line up with our Jesse tree ornaments, but we can work with it.

Lo and behold,  I stumbled upon this link to a free Advent printable that uses the Jesus Storybook Bible--what perfect timing!  The work is all done for me, all I have to do is follow the list. :)

I've written before about our Jesse tree, here and here if anyone is interested.  Along with many other Advent traditions, this is a fantastic way to keep the focus on Jesus and how His coming is prophesied throughout Scripture.  One of my goals each year is to focus our family's minds on the Christ in "Christmas," rather than all the focus being on the presents and decorations.  Those are fun things too, but not the real reason we celebrate. :)

2 comments:

Carrie said...

thanks, I felt the same way last year..with this link, we are going to switch too. :)

Unknown said...

We did the Jesus Storybook Bible with the Ann Voskamp ornaments last year too! I didn't click on your link so I'm not sure if it's the *exact* same one we used but it was PERFECT for my kids' level of understanding. I agree, the Ann Voskamp Jesse Tree devotional is incredible but it was WAY over my kids' heads also. And over my head sometimes too! But so beautifully written and well done . . . I'll file it away for the future to be sure. This year I think I'm going to switch things up and do the "Everyday Emmanuel" advent calendar from "What's in the Bible?". Had a busy few days here so haven't officially started anything yet!