Jesse Tree - WEEK 4 - Day 24 - Tuesday

FOURTH TUESDAY OF ADVENT

JOSEPH, THE FOSTER FATHER OF JESUS

SCRIPTURE READING: Matthew 1:18-25

Joseph, the husband of Mary and earthly father of Jesus, was a man of great faith and obedience. When he learned that Mary, his betrothed, was pregnant, he initially planned to quietly divorce her to avoid public disgrace. However, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, reassuring him that the child was conceived by the Holy Spirit and that he should take Mary as his wife. The angel said, “Do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 1:20).

Joseph’s immediate response was obedience. He married Mary and became the earthly protector and provider for Jesus. Later, when another angel warned him of King Herod’s plan to kill the child, Joseph took Mary and Jesus to Egypt, ensuring their safety (Matthew 2:13-15).

Joseph’s story highlights the themes of obedience, protection, and faithfulness. He humbly accepted his role as the earthly father of Jesus, trusting in God’s guidance, and his actions were pivotal in keeping the Holy Family safe and fulfilling God's plan.

 

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for the faith and obedience of Joseph, who trusted in Your guidance and faithfully protected Your Son. Help us to follow his example of humility and trust in Your will for our lives. May we always seek to protect and nurture the gifts You have given us. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 4 - Day 23 - Monday

 

FOURTH MONDAY OF ADVENT

MARY, HOPE FOR THE FUTURE

SCRIPTURE READING: Luke 1:26-38

Mary, the mother of Jesus, was a young woman living in Nazareth, a humble town in Galilee. She was chosen by God to bear the Savior of the world, a call that came through the angel Gabriel. The angel announced, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you” (Luke 1:28). Despite her initial fear, Mary responded with faith and obedience, saying, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled” (Luke 1:38).

Mary's yes to God changed the course of history. She carried Jesus Christ in her womb and nurtured Him, becoming the mother of the Savior of the world. Her trust in God's plan and willingness to surrender her life to His will set an example of perfect discipleship and humility. Though Mary was deeply honored by her role, she never sought glory for herself, always pointing others to Jesus.

Mary’s life teaches us about the power of faith, obedience, and the willingness to say "yes" to God, even when the call seems overwhelming. Through her, we see how God works in humble, obedient hearts to bring about His grand plan of salvation.

 

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for Mary’s willingness to accept Your call and be the mother of our Savior. May we follow her example of obedience and faith, saying “yes” to Your will for our lives. Help us to carry Christ in our hearts and share His love with others. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 4 - Day 22 - Sunday

 

FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT

JOHN THE BAPTIST, REPENTANCE

 

SCRIPTURE READING: Luke 1:57-66, 3:1-20, 7:18-30

John the Baptist, the son of Elizabeth and Zechariah, was the forerunner of Jesus Christ. From a young age, John was set apart by God to prepare the way for the Messiah. He lived in the wilderness, preaching a message of repentance and calling people to turn from their sins. His ministry focused on baptism as a sign of cleansing and renewal, preparing the people of Israel to receive the Savior.

John boldly proclaimed, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 3:2). His words were not just about physical baptism but about a spiritual transformation, urging people to make their hearts ready for the coming of Jesus. John recognized that he was not the Messiah but was chosen to point others toward Him. When he baptized Jesus in the Jordan River, he testified, “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on Him” (John 1:32).

John’s life and ministry remind us of the importance of repentance, humility, and being prepared for Christ’s coming. As the last of the prophets, John’s role was to prepare the hearts of the people for the ultimate message of salvation in Jesus Christ.

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for the faithful witness of John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus. Help us to live lives of repentance, humility, and readiness for Your coming. May we boldly proclaim Your truth, just as John did, and point others toward Jesus. Amen.

Lighting Advent Candles - Week 4

   

PRAYERS AND READINGS FOR LIGHTING THE ADVENT WREATH CANDLES

The Fourth Sunday of Advent

The final Advent candle color is purple and marks the last week of Advent as we anticipate the birth of our Savior. This final candle, also known as the “Angel’s Candle,” signifies love. It reminds us of the angels' message: “Peace on Earth, Good Will Toward Men” (Luke 2:14). The following Bible verses highlight God's love for humanity and the call for believers to love one another.

 

SCRIPTURE READING: John 3:16-17 or 1 John 4:9-11

 

(The priest lights the first candle)

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, as we light the fourth candle of this Advent wreath, we are reminded of your boundless love. May the light of this candle shine forth as a symbol of the love you have shown us through your Son, Jesus Christ. Fill our hearts with your love, and help us to love one another as you have loved us. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 3 - Day 21 - Saturday

 

THIRD SATURDAY OF ADVENT

ELIZABETH, JOY

 

SCRIPTURE READING: Luke 1:39-56

Elizabeth was the wife of Zechariah, a priest, and the mother of John the Baptist. She was a righteous woman who had long desired a child, but in her old age, she had been unable to conceive. When the angel Gabriel visited Zechariah and promised that Elizabeth would bear a son, despite her age, she humbly accepted God’s will, saying, “The Lord has done this for me” (Luke 1:25).

When Mary, who was carrying Jesus, visited Elizabeth, the unborn John leaped in her womb, recognizing the presence of the Savior (Luke 1:41-44). Elizabeth’s response was a proclamation of blessing: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!” (Luke 1:42). Elizabeth's recognition of Mary and her child shows her deep faith and understanding of the significance of Jesus' birth.

Elizabeth’s story teaches us about faith, patience, and humility. Despite her long wait for a child, she trusted in God's plan, which was far greater than she could have imagined. Her story also highlights the role of women in God’s salvation plan and their faithful response to His calling.

 

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for the faith of Elizabeth, who trusted in Your plan and rejoiced in Your blessings. Help us to have faith in Your timing and to humbly accept Your will in our lives. May we recognize and celebrate the presence of Jesus in our midst. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 3 - Day 20 - Friday

 

THIRD FRIDAY OF ADVENT

ZECHARIAH, ANTICIPATION

SCRIPTURE READING: Luke 1: 5-20; 57-80

Zechariah was a priest who served in the temple during the time of King Herod. He and his wife, Elizabeth, were righteous and faithful, yet they were childless and advanced in years. While Zechariah was burning incense in the temple, the angel Gabriel appeared to him with an incredible message: he and Elizabeth would have a son who would prepare the way for the Messiah. The angel instructed Zechariah to name the child John.

However, Zechariah doubted this message because of his and Elizabeth’s old age. Because of his unbelief, he was struck mute until the prophecy was fulfilled. When John was born and Zechariah wrote on a tablet, “His name is John” (Luke 1:63), his speech was restored. Immediately, he praised God with a song known as the Benedictus (Luke 1:68-79), which proclaims God’s faithfulness, mercy, and the coming of the Savior.

Zechariah’s journey is one of doubt turning to faith and silence turning to praise. His story reminds us of God’s power to fulfil His promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. It also teaches us that when we trust God, our lives become a testament to His faithfulness and grace.

 

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness, even when we struggle to believe. Like Zechariah, help us to trust Your promises and give You praise. May our hearts be open to Your messages, and may our lives proclaim Your goodness and mercy. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 3 - Day 19 - Thursday

 

THIRD THURSDAY OF ADVENT

DANIEL, THE DREAM OF SALVATION

SCRIPTURE READING: Dan 6: 10-23              

Daniel was a young man taken captive to Babylon during the exile of the Israelites. Despite living in a foreign land filled with challenges and temptations, Daniel remained faithful to God. He refused to compromise his faith, praying daily even when it was forbidden. This courage led to him being thrown into the lions' den, yet God protected him, and he emerged unharmed (Daniel 6:22).

Daniel's friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, also demonstrated incredible faith. When they refused to worship a golden statue, they were thrown into a fiery furnace. God miraculously saved them, and a divine figure—often seen as a foreshadowing of Christ—was present with them in the fire (Daniel 3:25).

Daniel's story is one of unwavering faith, trust, and courage. It teaches us to stay committed to God even in the face of persecution or danger. His visions and prophecies also point to the coming of the Messiah and God’s eternal kingdom.

 

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for the courage and faithfulness of Daniel. Help us to trust You even in difficult situations. Strengthen our faith so we can stand firm and know that You are always with us. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 3 - Day 18 - Wednesday

 

THIRD WEDNESDAY OF ADVENT

JEREMIAH, THE EXILE

SCRIPTURE READING: Jer 1:4-10, 2:4-13, 7:1-15, 8:22 through 9:1-11

Jeremiah, often called the “Weeping Prophet,” was chosen by God to deliver difficult messages to the people of Judah during a time of national crisis and impending exile. God told him, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I set you apart” (Jeremiah 1:5). Though Jeremiah felt inadequate, God assured him, “Do not be afraid… I am with you” (Jeremiah 1:8).

Jeremiah’s mission was to call the people to repentance and warn them of the consequences of turning away from God. One of his most powerful images was that of the potter shaping clay (Jeremiah 18:1-10), showing that God can shape and reshape His people according to His will. Despite facing rejection, imprisonment, and hardship, Jeremiah remained faithful.

Amid the warnings, Jeremiah also offered hope. He spoke of a new covenant where God’s law would be written on people’s hearts (Jeremiah 31:33). This new covenant was fulfilled through Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and transformation to all who believe.

 

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for the courage and faithfulness of Jeremiah. Help us to trust in Your plans even when they are difficult. Shape our hearts to follow You, and write Your truth within us. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 3 - Day 17 - Tuesday

 THIRD TUESDAY OF ADVENT

ISAIAH, THE CALL TO HOLINESS

SCRIPTURE READING: Isa 1:10-20, 2: 3-14, 6:1-13, 8:11 through 9:7

Isaiah was one of the greatest prophets of the Old Testament, called by God to speak to the people of Judah during a time of moral and spiritual decline. In a powerful vision, Isaiah saw God’s glory and felt unworthy, saying, “Woe to me! I am ruined!” But God purified him by touching his lips with a burning coal, symbolizing forgiveness and cleansing (Isaiah 6:5-7).

Isaiah boldly proclaimed messages of judgment, hope, and restoration. He delivered some of the most profound prophecies about the coming Messiah, including:

• “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9:2), foretelling the birth of Jesus.
• The Messiah would be called “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
• He also spoke of the Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53), who would bear the sins of many—a clear foreshadowing of Jesus’ sacrificial death for our salvation.

Isaiah’s words call us to repentance, hope, and trust in God’s plan. His prophecies remind us that God’s promise of a Savior was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who brings light and redemption to the world.

 

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for the words of the prophet Isaiah, who pointed to the coming of Jesus. Help us to turn from our sins and live in the hope and light of Your salvation. May we be faithful in sharing Your message of grace and truth. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 3 - Day 16 - Monday

THIRD MONDAY OF ADVENT

ELIJAH, THREAT OF FALSE GODS

SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Kng 17:1-16, 18:17-46

Elijah was a powerful prophet sent by God to call the people of Israel back to faithfulness during a time of widespread idolatry and corruption under King Ahab and Queen Jezebel. Through Elijah, God performed many miracles, such as providing food for the widow of Zarephath during a famine and raising her son from the dead.

One of Elijah’s greatest moments was his confrontation with the prophets of the false god Baal on Mount Carmel. Elijah prayed, and God sent fire from heaven to consume the offering on the altar, showing His power and proving He alone is the true God (1 Kings 18:38). Despite his bold faith, Elijah also experienced fear and discouragement, reminding us that even strong believers rely on God’s strength.

Elijah’s life ended in a miraculous way: he was taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire (2 Kings 2:11), symbolizing his closeness to God. Elijah’s mission points forward to John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus, and to Jesus Himself, who performed even greater miracles and called people back to God.

 

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for the bold faith of Elijah, who trusted in Your power and called others to follow You. Help us to stand firm in our faith, even when we face challenges or doubts. Give us courage to live for You and share Your truth. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 3 - Day 15 - Sunday

 

THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT

SOLOMON, WISDOM OF GOD

SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Kings 3: 3-14

Solomon, the son of David and Bathsheba, became king of Israel after his father. Known for his wisdom, Solomon asked God not for wealth or power, but for an understanding heart to govern the people. God granted him wisdom and also blessed him with riches and honor because of his humble request (1 Kings 3:5-14). One of Solomon’s most famous decisions was his just ruling in the case of two women claiming to be the mother of the same baby, revealing his extraordinary discernment.

Solomon also oversaw the building of the magnificent Temple in Jerusalem, a place where God’s presence dwelled among His people. This temple became the center of Israel’s worship and a symbol of their relationship with God. However, despite his wisdom, Solomon’s later life was marked by poor choices and a divided heart, reminding us of the need to remain faithful to God.

Solomon points to Jesus Christ, who is greater than Solomon (Matthew 12:42). Jesus is the true source of wisdom and the one who establishes a lasting temple in the hearts of believers.

 

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for the wisdom of Solomon and the reminder that true understanding comes from You. Help us to seek Your guidance and to build our lives on Your truth. May we remain faithful to You and honor You in all we do. Amen.

Lighting Advent Candles - Week 3

  

PRAYERS AND READINGS FOR LIGHTING THE ADVENT WREATH CANDLES

The Third Sunday of Advent

The third Advent candle is pink and represents joy. This candle is pink because the rose colour represents joy, also known as the “Shepherd’s Candle.” The third Sunday of Advent is meant to remind us of the world's joy at the birth of Jesus and that the faithful have arrived at the midpoint of Advent. The third week of Advent is often known as "Gaudete Sunday," derived from the Latin word "gaudete," which means "rejoice." It is a time of rejoicing and heightened anticipation as Christmas draws nearer.

The Joy Candle represents the joy that filled the hearts of the shepherds who received the news of Jesus' birth from the angels. It signifies the happiness and excitement of the world as it receives the long-awaited Messiah.

 

SCRIPTURE READING: Luke 2:10-11

 

(The priest lights the first candle)

PRAYER:

Loving God, as we light the third candle of this Advent wreath, we rejoice in your presence. May the light of this candle fill our hearts with the joy of your salvation. Help us to share this joy with others, spreading your love and happiness to all we encounter. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 2 - Day 14 - Saturday

 

SECOND SATURDAY OF ADVENT

DAVID, A SHEPHERD FOR THE PEOPLE

SCRIPTURE READING: 2 Sam 5:1-5, 7:1-17

David, the youngest son of Jesse, was a humble shepherd chosen by God to become the King of Israel. When the prophet Samuel anointed him, God said, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). David’s heart of faith and trust in God set him apart.

One of the most famous moments of David’s life is his battle with the giant Goliath. Armed only with a slingshot and five stones, David defeated the Philistine warrior, showing that with faith, no challenge is too great. His courage came not from his strength but from his belief that God was with him.

David became a great king and musician, writing many of the Psalms. Though he was not perfect and made mistakes, David always returned to God with a repentant heart. God promised David that his kingdom would last forever, a promise fulfilled through Jesus Christ, who is called the Son of David and the eternal King.

David’s life teaches us about faith, courage, repentance, and the importance of a heart devoted to God.

 

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of David, who trusted in Your power and sought Your heart. Help us to face our challenges with faith and to turn back to You when we fail. May we honor You with our lives. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 2 - Day 13 - Friday

 

SECOND FRIDAY OF ADVENT

SAMUEL 

SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Sam 3:1-21, 7:1-8:22, 9:15-10:9, 16: 1-13

Samuel was a special child, dedicated to God by his mother, Hannah, in gratitude for answering her prayer for a son. As a boy, Samuel lived in the temple under the care of Eli the priest. One night, Samuel heard God calling his name. Though he didn’t recognize God’s voice at first, he responded with humility and openness: “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10).

Samuel grew to become a prophet, a judge, and a faithful servant of God. He played a critical role in the history of Israel by anointing Saul as the first king and later David, who would become Israel’s greatest king. Samuel’s obedience and willingness to listen to God remind us of the importance of hearing and following God’s voice in our lives.

Samuel’s life points to Jesus, who is the ultimate prophet, priest, and king. Like Samuel, we are called to listen for God’s voice and obey His guidance with faith and trust.

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for the example of Samuel, who listened to Your call and served You faithfully. Help us to hear Your voice in our lives and respond with open hearts. Guide us to follow Your will each day. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 2 - Day 12 - Thursday

 

SECOND THURSDAY OF ADVENT

RUTH

SCRIPTURE READING: Ruth 1: 1-18

Ruth’s story is one of loyalty, love, and redemption. After the death of her husband, Ruth, a Moabite woman, chose to stay with her mother-in-law Naomi, saying, “Where you go, I will go; where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people, and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). Her faithfulness led her to a new life in Bethlehem, where she gleaned grain in the fields to provide for herself and Naomi.

Through God’s providence, Ruth met Boaz, a kind and generous man who became her kinsman-redeemer by marrying her and restoring her family’s future. Ruth became the great-grandmother of King David, placing her in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. This shows that God includes all people—regardless of background—in His plan of salvation.

Ruth’s story teaches us about faithfulness, kindness, and God’s provision. Her journey from loss to blessing reminds us that God works through our struggles to bring about His redemptive purposes.

 

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Ruth, who showed loyalty, kindness, and faith. Help us to trust in Your provision and remain faithful to You and those we love. May we always recognize Your guiding hand in our lives. Amen.

Jesse Tree - WEEK 2 - Day 11 - Wednesday

 

SECOND WEDNESDAY OF ADVENT

GIDEON, UNLIKELY HEROES

  

SCRIPTURE READING: Judges 6-8

Gideon was chosen by God during a time when the Israelites were oppressed by the Midianites. Though Gideon saw himself as weak and insignificant, God called him a “mighty warrior” and assured him of His presence and power. Through signs like the dew on the fleece, God strengthened Gideon’s faith and trust.

Gideon’s most remarkable act of leadership came when he led a small army of just 300 men to victory over the vast Midianite army. Armed with only trumpets, clay jars, and torches, they followed God’s instructions, and their obedience led to an unexpected and miraculous victory. This showed that true strength and victory come not from human might but from reliance on God.

Gideon’s story reminds us that God uses ordinary, imperfect people to accomplish His extraordinary purposes. It encourages us to trust God even when we feel weak or unqualified, knowing that His strength is made perfect in our weakness.

 

PRAYER:

Lord, thank You for the story of Gideon, who trusted in Your power despite his fears. Help us to rely on You when we feel weak or unsure. Give us courage to follow Your call, knowing that You are always with us. Amen.