Jerusalem

Greetings,

We have made it to Jerusalem. Yesterday we wrapped up our time in Galilee by going to Nazareth, Meggido, and Ceasarea. We had an incredible view of the entire Jezerel Valley from atop the mountain that Nazareth is built on. While in Nazareth we visited Mary's well, which was incredible. A church service was going on while we walked in, but we were able to see a great deal of it without being a terrible distraction.

Next we went to Meggido, and explored the tell there. We saw an ancient altar where sacrifices would have been made. We also got to walk in the underground tunnel which brought water from the spring outside the city. This setup was similar to Hezekiah's tunnel in Jerusalem.

Finally we headed to the Mediterranean to see the aqueduct built by Herod the Great. We also visited Ceasarea and explored the Greco-Roman city which included the a hippodrome, amphitheatre, and palace. It was a tremendous journey into history!

Today, we went to Betphage, Mount of Olives, David's tomb, the Upper Room, and Bethlehem. We saw tombs that were similar to those of Jesus' and Lazarus'. We then spent some quite time of reflection in the Garden of Gethsemane. We journeyed up the hill to Jerusalem and into the upper room.

One of the most incredible things of the day was the Church of the Nativity. Three churches worship in this church, but all churches are connected in a deep spiritual way to this historic place. During our visit the Greek Orthodox Church was worshipping. The sights and smells of this ancient place of worship reminded me of the amazing significance of the Christmas story.

We will be exploring more of this great land in the days to come, and I am sure we will have more to share. Thank you all for your prayers and please be praying for rain here in Israel and for the peace of the world. God bless and Shalom!