Israel — a land of many cultures, rich history and beautiful scenery.
While to some the land and culture may appear rugged and harsh, many others fall in love with the stories and the deep connections that are the very formation of our faith. This is, after all, the land where Abraham pitched his tent, Solomon built a magnificent temple and our Savior Jesus Christ was born.
Welcome to this glimpse of the land of the Bible today. We’re glad you stopped by!
Most mornings on the tour begin with a short meditation to kickstart the dayStanding stones at the city of GezerLooking out over the Sorek Valley where the Israelites would have watched the ark of the covenant return to Beth Shemesh on a cow-pulled cart from the land of the Philistines (1 Samuel 6).A large flock of sheep and goats near Tel AzekahStrenuous hiking up to the top of Azekah which overlooks the Elah Valley where David fought and killed Goliath.A “locust” bean pod similar to carob. Could this be what John the Baptist ate with his honey?A delicious middle eastern meal, falafel is a favorite of many!A typical ancient olive press in an underground cave. Gethsemane or “Gat Shemenim” in Hebrew, is literally “a place where oils are pressed.” Perhaps it was a place like this where Jesus suffered the night before his betrayal.Hiking the land sometimes affords you a real “up close and personal” meeting with wildlife.The Timna Valley in southern Israel is not mentioned in the Bible but copper mining was done in this area during the biblical period.This life-size replica of the biblical tabernacle brings new life to the stories of the Israelite wanderings.At times high on mountains and at times climbing up ravines, a trip to Israel is always full of variation.Hiking isn’t all we do! Inspiring teaching and great discussions happen at nearly every site. Connections to the biblical stories that happened right around you will open your eyes to a fresh, new dimension of understanding the Bible.The fortress of Masada, Herod’s royal citadel and later the last outpost of Zealots during the Jewish Revolt.And not far from Masada, tucked in the desert mountains, lies the refreshing ravine or “wadi” of Engedi. Here David and his men lived in caves while fleeing from Saul (1 Samuel 23).Although shining and beautiful anytime of day, the Dead Sea lives up to its name and carries no life at all. How is it with us? Do we give life and energy to those around us or are we always taking and never passing on what was shared with us?The caves of Qumran far below where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. And beyond, a glimmering bit of the Dead Sea.The ancient Roman city Beth Shean or Scythopolis was the capital city of the Decapolis and was the only one on the west side of the Jordan River.Experience the Jordan River that still flows to this day although irrigation has diminished its size.The beautiful hills of the Galilee area are verdant with growth in the spring and early summer.The rugged cliffs of Arbel overlook the Sea of Galilee. Although it may appear formidable to climb, from the summit a beautiful panorama is spread before you, including the entire lake and the mountains of Galilee all the way to the Golan Heights and even Mount Hermon on a very clear day!Overlooking the beautiful Sea of Galilee from a hill on the western side. Perhaps Jesus sat at a similar location when he spoke the the beautiful words of the Sermon on the Mount.The Jezreel Valley from a mountain just outside of Nazareth. Perhaps young lad Jesus came here with his playmates to watch the action below.What better way to begin a day of study than pausing beside the Sea for several moments of meditation?
Israel — a land of many cultures, rich history and beautiful scenery.
