Jesse Tree: 4th Wednesday- Zechariah, Anticipation

Fourth Wednesday of Advent
Zechariah, Anticipation

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today we remember Zechariah, husband to Elizabeth and father of John the Baptist. The angel Gabriel appeared to Zechariah in his old age to announce that he was going to be a father. Zechariah did not believe the angel, and because of this was made unable to speak. When the baby was born, Elizabeth wanted to name him John as the angel had told her. The Jews have a tradition in which a baby can only be named after a relative, and since there was no one by that name in their family, the neighbors and relatives argued that she could not name the baby John. Zechariah wrote on a tablet, "His name is John." and was again able to speak.

Today's story is another that parallels the coming of the kingdom and the promises of God with the waiting and anticipation of pregnancy. As we saw with Abraham, and as we will see with Mary, God brings his gifts to his people in his own time, and against all odds. This joyful waiting for blessings mirrors the waiting for a baby, and we can reflect this in our own Advent waiting as well.

Today, think of blessings or opportunities that you are waiting for. Offer your time of waiting up to God in joyful prayer of anticipation. If the wait is long, pray for patience to wait for God's time.

Today's Focus: Zechariah, Anticipation
Symbol: Writing tablet
Scripture: Luke 1:57-80

Yesterday's Focus: Elizabeth, Joy
Tomorrow's Focus: Joseph, Trust

Jesse Tree: 4th Tuesday- Elizabeth, Joy

Fourth Tuesday of Advent
Elizabeth, Joy

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today we place the image of mother and child on the Jesse tree as we remember Mary sharing her joyful news with her kinswoman, Elizabeth. In today's scripture we read the words we now say in the Hail Mary and the Magnificat as the two women sing their joy over their pregnancies. We feel a great sense of blessing in this short scripture. Both Mary and Elizabeth know that they are doing the will of God, and that their sons are special. They know that with the coming of these children, the world will never be the same. What happiness! What joy!

Today, remember your own mother. Imagine the joy she must have felt in knowing that you were about to enter the world. Imagine her nervous excitement. If you are a parent, recall your anticipation as you waited for your own child. Think about the amazing mystery that God chose to be manifest to the world in such a commonly extraordinary way.

Today's Focus: Elizabeth, Joy
Symbol: Mother and Child
Scripture:  Luke 1:39-56

Yesterday's Focus: Mary, Hope for the Future
Tomorrow's Focus: Zechariah, Anticipation

Jesse Tree: 4th Monday- Mary, Hope for the Future

Fourth Monday of Advent
Mary, Hope for the Future

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

The white lily symbolizes Mary, mother of Jesus. As we near Christmas day in the this fourth week of Advent, we remember the immediate family of Jesus.

In today's scripture, we read of the Annunciation to Mary by the angel Gabriel. We recall Mary's, "yes" to God's call in a story of joy and expectancy. We see the coming of the Messiah who has been foretold and foreshadowed every step of the way in scripture up until this point. It is in this story that we realize that we are on the brink of the culmination of our Biblical story, a love story in which God sends into the world, through Mary, his only son. Mary's yes opens the door to joy and excitement as we realize that this is it, the savior is coming. Mary opened her heart to God's will, humbly accepting the great responsibility that He asked her to bear. Thanks to her acceptance, we are about to embark on the story of Jesus, the Messiah and redeemer.

Today, take a moment to quiet the stress and preparations for Christmas from your mind, and allow the joy and anticipation for the culmination of the Christmas story to fill your heart. Jesus is coming! Rejoice!

Today's Focus: Mary, Hope for the Future
Symbol: The white lily
Scripture: Luke 1:26-38

Yesterday's Focus: John the Baptist, Repentance
Tomorrow's Focus: Elizabeth, Joy

Jesse Tree: 4th Sunday- John the Baptist, Repentance

Fourth Sunday of Advent
John the Baptist, Repentance

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today we begin reading scriptures from the New Testament as we meditate on the Jesse Tree, and we place the shell as a symbol of the last prophet, John the Baptist. Today's scripture tells us of the birth and ministry of John as he prepared the people for the coming of Jesus.

We can see John as a prophet in the tradition of the other great prophets on our tree, Isaiah, Elijah, and Jeremiah, among others. John called the people to repentance, and he called them to service. Even as he baptized them in the Jordan, he rebuked the people and spurned them on to love the poor and act justly. We see John linking the prophets of the past with the message of love that Jesus brings.

We also read in these chapters the family lineage of Jesus, tracing back to Adam and Eve. We see in Luke 3:23-38 many of the names that we have remembered in our Advent journey. We are almost to Christmas, and we are nearing the time of Christ in our meditation.

Today, look for a time this week to receive the sacrament of reconciliation.

Today's Focus: John the Baptist, Repentance
Symbol: The shell
Scripture: Luke 1:57-80, 3:1-207:18-30

Yesterday's Focus: Nehemiah, Return & Rebuilding
Tomorrow's Focus: Mary, Hope for the Future

Jesse Tree: 3rd Saturday-Nehemiah, Return & Rebuilding

Third Saturday of Advent
Nehemiah, Return and Rebuilding

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today we place the image of the city wall on the Jesse Tree in remembrance of Nehemiah. The people of Judah had been dispersed in captivity until there was only a remnant left. Nehemiah prayed to God, asking Him to allow the people to be gathered together again, if they would return to follow Mosaic law. Nehemiah begged permission from the current king to rebuild the city of Jerusalem, and he gathered the people together to rebuild. With much prayer, faithfulness, and hard work (even in the face of enemies) the people of Judah succeeded in rebuilding the city. Once the walls were rebuilt, Nehemiah took steps to make sure that the people kept the sabbath holy, and followed the law of Moses so that they would remain faithful to their covenant with God.

Today, look for areas of your life, ministries you are in, or work you do that is struggling, or has fallen apart. How can you begin to bring your work in line with what God wants? Are there areas in your life that need to be brought back into faithfulness with God?

Today's Focus: Nehemiah, Return and Rebuilding

Symbol: City Wall

Scripture: Neh 1:1-2:8, 6:15-16, 13:10-22

Yesterday's Focus: Habakkuk, Waiting

Tomorrow's Focus: John the Baptist, Repentance

Jesse Tree: 3rd Friday- Habakkuk, Waiting

Third Friday of Advent
Habakkuk, Waiting

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

 The stone watchtower symbolizes Habakkuk today. The book of Habakkuk is a short one, and slightly difficult to ready, but one that carries an important message.

Habakkuk cries out to God, asking why He does not intervene against the enemies of judah, as well as against the evil people from Judah. Habakkuk is especially distraught over the destruction the Chaldea has brought. God answers Habakkuk as he answered Jeremiah, Isaiah, and Elijah: the people are being punished for their wrong doing. The twist in Habakkuk is that the people are not just being punished for idol worship, but also the destruction and harm they have visited on other nations. God includes all of creation in this explanation, even citing the destruction of the forests in Lebanon as a reason for His anger. We see in this book destruction and violence against people and against creation as sinful. God tells Habakkuk that it is the job of just and righteous people to keep their faith in God through the trials they are facing, and they will weather the storm against their enemies, eventually returning to the Promised Land.

Today, with one week left until Christmas, focus on waiting prayerfully and faithfully. Make every preparation a gift of prayer. Pray for the recipients of gifts as you wrap them, pray for the hungry as you prepare food. Make your Advent waiting a gift of love.

Today's Focus: Habakkuk, Waiting
Symbol: Stone Watchtower
Scripture: Hab 1:1-2:1, 3:16-19

Yesterday's Focus: Jeremiah, The Exile
Tomorrow's Focus: Nehemiah, Return and Rebuilding

Jesse Tree: 3rd Thursday- Jeremiah, The Exile

Third Thursday of Advent
Jeremiah, The Exile

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

As we remember Jeremiah, tears are placed on the Jesse Tree. It fell to Jeremiah to tell the people of Israel and Judah that God was angry once again over their idol worship, and that God considered the covenant to be broken. The punishment for this was to be the attack on and captivity of the Israelites by Babylon.

Jeremiah was not a popular person when he spoke the word of God. He was beaten, imprisoned, taunted, and reviled. But Jeremiah stayed faithful to God, calling the people to repentance and understanding. God also remained faithful to Jeremiah. After the fall of Jerusalem, Jeremiah was freed from prison and kept safe from his enemies.

Today, pray for the strength and courage to speak the truth, even a personal cost. Think back on a time when you were too afraid to speak out, and ask God's forgiveness.

Today's Focus: Jeremiah, The exile
Symbol: tears
Scripture: Jer 1:4-10, 2:4-13, 7:1-15, 8:22 through 9:1-11

Yesterday's Focus: Isaiah, The Call to Holiness
Tomorrow's Focus: Habakkuk, Waiting

Jesse Tree: 3rd Wednesday- Isaiah, The Call to Holiness

Third Wednesday of Advent
Isaiah, The Call to Holiness

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

The fire tongs and hot coal are placed on the Jesse Tree today. We recall the prophet Isaiah today and his call to Judah to be a holy people. The book of Isaiah is full of prophecies about the coming Messiah.

In the first chapter, we see a shift in the way the people are asked to act out their faithfulness. In earlier books we see God asking for sacrifices and offerings, we see the people being called to prayer and worship. In Isaiah we hear God calling for justice for all people, and care for the poor as a way for the people to show their love: "When you spread out your hands, I close my eyes to you; Though you pray the more, I will not listen. Your hands are full of blood! Wash yourselves clean! Put away your misdeeds from before my eyes; cease doing evil learn to do good. Make justice your aim: redress the wronged, hear the orphan's plea, defend the widow." (Isa 1: 15-17)

Today, think of someone you encounter who is in need of justice or defense. If you cannot think of someone  you know personally, consider making a donation to a food bank, or to a shelter. Look for ways to bring justice to the world.

Today's Focus: Isaiah and the Call to Holiness
Symbol: Fire tongs and hot coal
Scripture: Isa 1:10-20, 6:1-13, 8:11 through 9:7

Yesterday's Focus: Hezekiah, Faithfulness and deliverance 
Tomorrow's Focus: Jeremiah, The exile

Jesse Tree: 3rd Tuesday- Hezekiah, Faithfulness and Deliverance

Third Tuesday of Advent
Hezekiah, Faithfulness and Deliverance

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Hezekiah was a king of Judah. He is noted in scripture for his faithfulness to God. We see in the story of Hezekiah the continuing covenant with the descendants of David. Hezekiah was a faithful leader who destroyed idolatry, conquered many areas surrounding Judah, and kept his people focused on the will of God.

When it looked like the Assyrian army was going to destroy Judah, Hezekiah turned to prayer. He asked all of the people to pray and fast, and he asked the prophet Isaiah to lead the people in their petitions. Hezekiah begged the Lord to defend them against the Assyrian assault, not to save his kingship, but rather so that all people would know the Lord is the true God. God answered Hezekiah's prayer, killing the Assyrians in their camp, and turning them away from their invasion.

Today, reflect on times when you have do the right thing for the wrong reasons. Have you let glory, your own ego, or some other attitude get in the way? Today, focus on doing right not to look good, but rather so that others may see the goodness of God through you.

Today's Focus: Hezekiah, Faithfulness and Deliverance
Symbol: Empty tent
Scripture: 2 Kng 18:1-19:19, 32-37

Yesterday's Focus: Elijah, Threat of False Gods
Tomorrow's Focus: Isaiah, The Call to Holiness

Jesse Tree: 3rd Monday- Elijah, Threat of False Gods

Third Monday of Advent
Elijah, Threat of False Gods

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today we remember the prophet Elijah as we put the image of the stone altar on the Jesse Tree. Elijah's mission was to challenge the Israelites through words and signs.

The people had fallen to worshiping Baal and would not repent. Elijah brought them word from God that no rain would fall and their would be a great drought. The queen was furious and Elijah had to go into hiding. God provided food and water for him, as well as for the widow who eventually sheltered him.

Later we see a test between the prophets of Baal and Elijah. Whichever god  lit the fire would be the true god. While the prophets of Baal waited, Elijah taunted them. No fire appeared. When Elijah built his altar and prayed to the Lord, fire appeared and lit the offering. The people believed in the true God and rain returned to the land.

Today, think of a false idol in your life. This Advent season is gift giving or receiving becoming a false idol, distracting from the celebration of the birth of Jesus? Think of a step you can take to turn away from your idols and act on it.

Today's Focus: Elijah, Threat of False Gods
Symbol: Stone altar (alternative, the raven)
Scripture: 1 Kng 17:1-16, 18:17-46

Yesterday's Focus: David, a shepherd for the people
Tomorrow's Focus: Hezekiah, Faithfulness and deliverance

Jesse Tree: 3rd Sunday- David, a Shepherd for the People

3rd Sunday of Advent
David, a Shepherd for the People

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today we place the image of the shepherd's crook on the Jesse Tree. We remember David, from whose line Jesus is descended. David's father, Jesse, and his family were shepherds. David was the youngest and a skilled harper. In today's scripture, we see Samuel's anointing of David, as well as the entrance of David into King Saul's court as a harper.

Today's Jesse Tree readings are filled with the scriptural imagery of shepherds that permeates both the history and the life of Christ. We again see a call to leadership beginning with the Spirit, and an anointing. These themes appear over and over again in the Bible. We see in them our call to love and lead, and to be caretakers while at the same time being cared for.

Today think about people who you care for or "shepherd". Pray for the wisdom to guide and love them as Jesus would.

Today's Focus: David a Shepherd for the People
Symbol: The shepherd's crook (alternative image is the harp)
Scripture: 1 Sam 16:1-23-17:58, 2 Sam 5:1-5, 7:1-17

Yesterday's Focus: Samuel, the Beginning of the Kingdom
Tomorrow's Focus: Elijah, Threat of False Gods

Jesse Tree: 2nd Saturday- Samuel, The Beginning of the Kingdom

2nd Saturday of Advent
Samuel, The Beginning of the Kingdom

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

The crown on the Jesse Tree symbolizes the beginning of the line of kings of Israel.

Today's scripture readings begin with the call of Samuel. Samuel hears a voice calling him by name and mistakes it for the voice of Eli. Once he realizes that it is the Lord calling him, Samuel embarks on his ministry as the last of the Old Testament judges. We see Samuel call the Israelites back to the way of God once more. Again they have fallen away and again they are punished, this time by losing the ark of the covenant to the Philistines. After recovering the ark, the people under the guidance of Samuel turn back toward righteousness. They ask Samuel in his old age to find them a king to lead  and unite them. Samuel argues, believing that a king will become a tyrant, but he speaks to the Lord and  God tells him to find the people a king. Samuel finds Saul, from the tribe of Benjamin, and anoints him as king and leader of Israel.

Today, think of times when your own wants and ideas have seemed so important, you forgot to pray and ask the guidance of God. Take some time today to quiet your own desires and be open to the will of the Lord.

Today's Focus: Samuel and the Beginning of the Kingdom
Symbol: Crown
Scripture: 1 Sam 3:1-21, 7:1-8:22, 9:15-10:9

Yesterday's Focus: Gideon, Unlikely Heroes
Tomorrow's Focus: David, A shepherd for the people

Jesse Tree: 2nd Friday- Gideon, Unlikely Heroes

2nd Friday of Advent
Gideon, Unlikely Heroes

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today we place the symbol of the clay water pitcher on the Jesse Tree as a reminder of the Judge Gideon. Gideon's story is a less-known story than those already on the tree, but a very human and relatable one.

After the death of Joshua, Israel fell away from worshiping the Lord. How normal! Teachers and parents often good behavior from children and then it all falls apart when they leave the room. God was angered by Israel's idolatry and refused to help them overcome the surrounding nations any further. He withdrew His help. He sent judges to bring the people back around to true worship. The first of these was Gideon.

When God called Gideon, he did not believe (much like Moses) that he was qualified to speak with any authority and tell the Israelites how to live and pray. But God gave him signs and tools to lead the people back into the fold. How much are we like Gideon, waiting for some external reason to speak up for the truth? We often fear that we do not have the words, or that no one would listen to us, because what authority do we have? But one does not have to be rich, powerful, or even clever to speak out for rightness and justice. God dwells in every one of us and when we speak out for the poor, the oppressed, the hungry, that indwelling invests us with all the authority we need.

Today, think of all the unsung heroes and role models in your life. Say a prayer of thanksgiving to God for placing people in your life who lead you toward holiness.

Today's focus: Gideon, Unlikely Heroes
Symbol: Clay water pitcher
Scripture: Judges 2:6-23, 6-8

Yesterday's Focus: Joshua and the fall of Jericho
Tomorrow's Focus: Samuel, the beginning of the Kingdom

Jesse Tree: 2nd Thursday- Joshua and the Fall of Jericho

2nd Sunday of Advent
Joshua and the Fall of Jericho

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today's Jesse Tree ornament is the ram's horn trumpet. The horn reminds us of the story of Joshua. The scripture for today begins with the Israelites entrance into the Promised Land. After all of their years in the desert, Moses passed away and Joshua was chosen to lead the people across the Jordan and into the land they had been waiting for since their exodus from Egypt.

The second scripture tells the story of the battle at Jericho. The Israelites brought down the city walls not through force, but instead through solidarity and faithfulness to the will of God. The lesson for us in this story is the amazing power that the people of God have when they work together to do good in the world. We see this reflected in the New Testament, Matthew 18: 19-20: "Again, (amen,) I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."

Today, think of "battles" in your daily life, or issues in the world that you are concerned about. Could collective prayer help? Could you gather your Christian community to help you? What wrongs could you right if you brought together a group of the faithful?

Today's Focus: Joshua and the Fall of Jericho
Symbol: Ram's horn trumpet
Scripture: Joshua 1:1-11, 6:1-20

Yesterday's Focus: God and the Torah at Mt. Sinai
Tomorrow's Focus: Gideon, Unlikely Heroes

Jesse Tree: 2nd Wednesday- God and the Torah at Mt. Sinai

2nd Wednesday of Advent
God and the Torah at Mount Sinai

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today's Jesse Tree symbol is that of the Ten Commandments. Today we reflect on the cementing of the covenant between God and his chosen people through the handing down of the law to Moses.

God tells Moses that the Israelites are His chosen, and a priestly people. He says that He will hold us dear, but we in turn must follow these commandments. When Jesus was asked which of these ten commandments was the most important, instead of choosing one he said, "The first is this: 'Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone!

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." (Mark 12:29-31) This did not overrule or abolish the ten commandments, but rather encapsulated all ten into two universal and clear commandments. These two incorporate all of the original commandments. 

Today, think of outward ways to show your love of God and neighbor. What visible, tangible thing can you do today to show your preparation for Advent? Rather than hiding your preparation under the proverbial bushel basket, let that love and readiness for God's love shine forth today. How can you visibly show your faith today?

Today's Focus: God and the Torah at Mt. Sinai

Symbol: tablets

Scripture: Exodus 19:1-20, 20

Yesterday's Focus: The Israelites, Passover and Exodus

Tomorrow's Focus: Joshua and the Fall of Jericho

Jesse Tree: 2nd Tuesday- Israelites, Passover and Exodus

2nd Tuesday of Advent
Israelites, Passover and Exodus

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today we remember the Passover and Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt as we put the paschal lamb symbol on the Jesse Tree. The Israelites in Egypt were delivered out of slavery by God's signs and power. Moses spoke on behalf of God to Pharaoh to free his people. He was the conduit for the plagues that God sent to the Egyptians as they held the Israelites captive. The blood of the lamb was the sign for the Angel of death to pass over the homes of the faithful. This final sign, the slaying of the firstborn of Egypt, opened the door for Moses to lead the people out into the desert.

The sacrificial lamb both hearkens back to the story of the sacrifice of Isaac and forward to Jesus' role as the sacrificial lamb of our salvation. Each time we see this image, we also see God renewing and cementing his covenant with His people. Sacrifice and promise are once again at the forefront of the history of Jesus, and the Christian people.

Today, recall a time you were saved or delivered from harm. Recall a time in which someone set their own needs aside in order to serve or help you. Say a prayer of thanksgiving.

Today's Focus: Israelites, Passover and Exodus
Symbol: Lamb
Scripture: Exodus 12:1 through 14:31

Yesterday's Focus: Moses, God's Leadership
Tomorrow's Focus: God and the Torah at Mount Sinai

Jesse Tree: 2nd Monday- Moses, God's Leadership

2nd Monday of Advent
Moses, God's Leadership

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

The symbol of the burning bush is placed on the Jesse Tree today. The burning bush reminds us of the story of Moses' birth, youth, and call to leadership.

The story of Moses is probably one of the best known scriptural stories. Joseph and his brothers' descendants in Egypt have become slaves. Pharaoh  sentences all first born Hebrews to death, and Moses' mother saves him by placing him in a basket in the river where Pharaoh's daughter will find and raise him. After growing up in Egypt, Moses has a confrontation that ends in his murdering the other man. He flees to Midian and begins a new life.

One day as Moses is tending his father-in-law's sheep when God speaks to him from the burning bush. He calls Moses to return to Egypt and free his people. Moses does not want this task, and he tries desperately to change God's mind. God continues to call Moses to be a leader and free the Hebrew people. He gives Moses signs and help to begin his work.

Today, spend some time in silence. Quiet your heart and mind and be open to God's call. Where is God leading you at this time? Set aside your worries and fears. If God is calling, he will provide all you need to do His will. Moses is our best example of God not calling the qualified, but rather qualifying the called. Open your heart to hear and accept that call.

Today's Focus: Moses and God's Leadership
Symbol: The burning bush
Scripture: Exodus 2:1 through 4:20

Yesterday's Focus: Joseph
Tomorrow's Focus: The Israelites, Passover and Exodus

Jesse Tree: 2nd Sunday- Joseph

2nd Sunday of Advent
Joseph

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today's focus is Joseph and God's Providence. There are two appropriate symbols, the sack of grain, or the multicolored coat.

Joseph was gifted with visions and the ability to interpret the dreams of others. He remained steadfast to the will of God, choosing to do the right thing, even when it was difficult. Time and time again those closest to Joseph are jealous of him, and cause him harm when he will not turn away from the right path. His brothers beat him and sell him into slavery, then his master's wife lies and accuses him of seducing her when he rejects her advances. Both times God makes sure that good comes from Joseph's suffering, and that Joseph's side of the story comes to light.

The story of Joseph inspires us to faithfulness, even when everything seems to be working against us. God will provide, and He can make beauty and good out of even the worst situations if we remain faithful and allow Him to work through us.

Today, call to mind your most frustrating or painful situation. Look for the goodness that has or still might grow from it. How have you grown? What opportunities do you have in this situation? How can you remain positive and focused on God in light of this struggle?

Today's Focus: Joseph
Symbol: Sack of grain, or the Coat of many colors
Scripture: Genesis 37, 39:1-50

Yesterday's Focus: Jacob
Tomorrow's Focus: Moses and God's leadership

Jesse Tree: 1st Saturday- Jacob

1st Saturday of Advent
Jacob

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

Today we place the symbol of Jacob's ladder onthe Jesse tree. This image reminds us of Jacob's vision of heaven and his relationship with God.

After usurping his brother's birthright, Jacob flees into Canaan to escape Esau's anger. He tricked his father and wronged his brother, and yet God did not abandon him. Jacob chooses to sleep at a shrine, and in a dream sees a ladder reaching up to Heaven, with angels ascending and descending. God reiterates the promise made to Abraham when he tells Jacob that he will be the father of a great nation. God tells Jacob that He will protect him always. Jacob wakes, amazed and says that if God truly protects him and provides for his needs until he returns to Isaac, he will worship God as the Lord.

Think about times that you have placed conditions on God, or times you have attempted to bribe God with good deeds or changes if He will just do as you ask. Recall also times you have placed conditions on your love for your family and friends. Remember that true love and faith do not come with strings attached. Recommit to selfless love of God and others.

Today's Focus: Jacob
Symbol: Ladder
Scripture: Genesis 27:41-28:22 

Yesterday's Focus: Isaac and the Offering
Tomorrow's Focus: Joseph

Jesse Tree: 1st Friday- Isaac and the Offering

1st Friday of Advent
Isaac and the Offering

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

The image of the ram is placed on the Jesse Tree today. The ram is symbolic of the story of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac. We see on this branch of the family tree a foreshadowing of the sacrifice of Jesus. Genesis 22:12 the messenger of God relates,  "...I know now how devoted you are to God, since you did not withhold from me your own beloved son."

God tests Abraham's faith one last time in asking him to sacrifice his son, the child he waited so long to have. Abraham is willing to make this sacrifice in pure trust and loving obedience to God. However, God stops Abraham at the crucial moment and provides a ram to be sacrificed instead.

God sent his own beloved son as a sacrifice for our sins. We see in Abraham a human reflection of a father's willingness to give up what he loves for the good of all. The pain and grief this must have caused Abraham is unknowable. Isaac too trusted his father implicitly. While he questioned what his father wanted, he did not refuse. This too foreshadows Jesus' willingness to die for us as his Father requested.

Today, make a small sacrifice of love for someone else. Perhaps you can skip a purchase for yourself and give the money to someone who needs it. Maybe you can do a task lovingly and openly around the house for someone else. Consider letting go of a grudge or hurt on your heart.

Today's Focus: Isaac and the Offering
Symbol: The ram
Scripture: Genesis 22:1-19

Yesterday's Focus: Abraham and the Promise
Tomorrow's Focus: Jacob

Jesse Tree: 1st Thursday- Abraham and the Promise

First Thursday of Advent
Abraham and the Promise

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

The Jesse Tree symbol of the stars reminds us of God's covenant with Abraham to make his descendants as numerous as the stars.

The story of Abraham is about God's call. Abram and his wife Sarai were called, not in their youth, but in their old age. God asked them to leave their community and their land, all that they knew. He promised that even though they had no children, Abram, renamed Abraham, would father a nation. Abraham and Sarah followed this call, praising God at each stop, even though the fulfillment of the promise with the birth of Isaac took long to manifest.

We know from the Bible that Abraham was not perfect, and made mistakes. But his confidence in God's plan and his faithful following of the call is an inspiration. What a terrifying prospect, to leave all home and comfort at the age of seventy-five, and begin an adventure for God!

Today, think on your vocation, and what God might be calling you to. Say a prayer of thanks for the opportunity to walk with God and enjoy the fruits of that relationship and calling. Brainstorm ways to live your calling more fully, or set aside time to listen for God's voice calling you to do His work.

Today's Focus: Abraham and the Promise
Symbol: Field of Stars
Scripture: Genesis 12:1-7, 15:1-6

Yesterday's Focus: Noah and the Flood
Tomorrow's Focus: The Offering of Isaac

December New Releases

December 2010

 
December New Releases

 

Remember Jesus Christ

What place does Christ have in modern society? Raniero Cantalamessa, the preacher to the papal household, asked that question in a series of Advent & Lent meditations presented to Pope Benedict XVI. He argues that the church must become "fishers" of men before becoming "shepherds" of men. 

 

 

 

St. Joseph's Story

 
This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of the nativity through the lens of St. Joseph. Children will come to love & appreciate St. Joseph as they learn about his role in the story of Jesus' birth.
Ages 4-8. Makes a wonderful Advent or Christmas gift.

 

 

 

Advent:A Family Celebration

 
This book will delight both children &adults with its ability to relate Scripture & prayer to real life events. Each day's meditation, designed to be said after the lighting of the Advent wreath, features a Scripture passage based on the Mass readings. A reflection & prayer then relates the Bible passage to a story or event.

 

 

 

Ten Christmas Sheep

 
This charming board book takes children through the classic story of the Nativity. Along for the journey are 10 sheep, which children are encouraged to point out & number, strengthening their counting skills. Combine the real meaning of Christmas with a counting lesson & you've got the fun & engaging Ten Christmas Sheep!

 

 

Christmas Activity Book

 
This children's story & activity book tells the story of the birth of Jesus, & provides opportunities to engage the nativity of Christ hands-on… Ideal for children ages 5-8.

 

 

 

Bernadette

 
Young readers will enjoy the lovely watercolors and lively text, as they are introduced to the simple girl whose visions of a "beautiful Lady" resulted in the discovery of a miraculous spring.

 

 

The Illustrated Gospel for Children

 
In youthful yet tasteful comic-book style, Jesus comes alive for young readers with vibrant & expressive four-color illustrations & simple but engaging text. The moving story of the life, death & resurrection of Jesus is told in a way young readers will find both attractive & challenging.

 

 

John Mary Vianney

 
In this tenderly & colorfully illustrated story, children will learn how John Vianney heard his calling to the priesthood when as a young boy during the French Revolution he attended underground Masses with his devout family.

 

 

 

Infinite Bandwidth

 
The author navigates you faithfully through the digital world, encouraging frustrated parents not to throw out cell phones, ban the Internet, chuck computers, or pitch portable media devices. That would be a mistake & would be going against more than 7 decades of Catholic teaching.

 

 

Crossing the Goal:Playbook on the Our Father

 
Game plan for men to become godly through studying the Lord's Prayer. Coach Danny Abramowicz, Peter Herbeck, Curtis Martin, & Brian Patrick tackle the Our Father, word for word, & reveal how its astonishing wisdom can change your life.

 

 

 

Treasury of Traditional Christmas Carols CD 

In this daily Advent companion, members of the Daughters of St. Paul share their reflections & lead readers in lectio divina on the Scripture readings for the season.

Jesse Tree: 1st Wednesday- Noah and the Flood

First Wednesday of Advent
Noah and the Flood

Image credit: Carolyn Pikoulas and the Diocese of Erie

The image of the ark is placed on the Jesse Tree today. We reflect on the story of Noah and the Ark, recalling the flood that destroyed the Earth, and the fresh start for all of creation that followed.

The story of the flood and the ark brings to mind the concept of stewardship for all living things. God commanded Noah to take two of every living thing into the ark and care for them during the flood. Noah and his family tended to all of the creatures and living things of the Earth, until they could be released back into the world when the waters dried up. Perhaps we can see in the story of Noah, a parallel of our responsibility to be faithful stewards of the Earth on our journey to the Kingdom.

Today, as we recall the Flood, think about water in all of its forms. Water brings life, but disasters such as floods and hurricanes also show the destructive power of water. Water cleanses and renews. It is a symbol of our baptism, and a foundation for life. Today, pray for those people and animals who do not have access to clean or adequate water.

Today's focus: Noah and the Flood
Symbol: The Ark
Scripture: Gen. 6-11, 7:17-8:12, 8:20-9:17

Yesterday's Focus: Adam and Eve, The First Sin
Tomorrow's Focus: Abraham, The Promise