Monday, February 2, 2015

Hard to believe it's almost over

Today was filled with more sights.  Mount of Olives overlooking Temple Mount, Garden of Gethsemane, Church of St. Anne, Pools of Bethesda, Stations of the Cross, Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Broad Wall, Lion's Gate, Upper Room Discourse, King David's Tomb, and returned to the Mount of Olives.

But, what I want to share tonight is our evening listening to each other talk about what God has taught us while being here.  As we've walked, listened to Jim teach, ate together and traversed Israel on a bus, we have laughed and cried together.  Tonight was no different.  When people talk about a study trip to Israel, they talk about significant life change.  I wondered if God would work the same way in my life.

As we wrap up our days of learning tomorrow, my head is full of knowledge.  It's been fun and challenging.  But, more important is my renewed love for God's word.  I have been reminded of the beauty of poetry in His Word, the challenges in His teaching through parables and the connections of the old and new testament.  God is delighted when we pursue relationship with Him through understanding His word and wait on Him to fulfill His promises.  It is the richest ext ever written.  We were reminded today to see things through spiritual eyes and not our human, first glance.

Yes, Israel has changed my life.  Also, this group of people and, specifically, God's word and His interaction with me here has changed my life.

Overlooking the Temple Mount

Garden of Gethsemane

Church of St. Anne 

Church of the Sepulcher

Lion's Gate

Walking to the Upper Room

Statue of King David

                                                           From the Mount of Olives

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