Today’s scripture reading is Matthew 1 : 18-25. The Jesse tree symbol is a carpentry tool to represent Joseph, in whose house Jesus was to be born and raised. What kind of man was Joseph, who was said to be “righteous” in a way that denoted honesty and kindness. A quiet man of faith, who looked at situations with consideration, not hastiness. I think maybe God chose just such people as Mary and Joseph to demonstrate the type of parents He would have us be. Mothers with quiet hearts and faith, fathers with strong honesty, not quick to anger, who train their children in honest work and things of life.
This is the household that Jesus grew up in, whose beginnings would seem shaky by our standards, and even those of the day.
Here are some carpenter tools that may have been found in Joseph’s shop, where Jesus humbly worked until the time he was to fulfill His calling.
