Left Bethlehem this morning and visited Canada Park, built on top of three Palestinian villages which were destroyed in the 1967 war. Saw remains of a few of the houses and the cemetery from prior to 67. Listened to an Israeli share about the tragedy that happened to the Palestinians and his work to help the Palestinians today. Memories of the war have been attempted to be erased with the planting of trees and the “blooming of the desert.” So sad to see all the lies people are told and how quickly they believe them. Wish that everyone could hear the narrative and stories of real people in both Israel and Palestine.
Drove north through the valley of Armageddon , surprised to see Nazareth straight ahead on the hill top. Passed by Mount Tabor and the Mount of Transfiguration, traveled down the steep mountain to Tiberius on the Sea of Galilee. Visited Capernaum, the home base for much of Jesus’ ministry and miracles, saw the remains of Peter’s house, skipped stones on the Sea of Galilee. Watched thousands of tourists descend upon the holy land sites and discovered how thankful I am that we are connecting with the life of the people and their culture. Prayed for the thousands of Palestinian Christians who long to visit these holy sites, but cannot because Israel will not allow them.
Visited the possible location of Jesus multiplying the loaves and fish. Ascended the mountain where Jesus taught the beatitudes and sermon on the mount. Walked past beautiful and birds and imagined Jesus asking the disciples, “Why do you worry so much?”
Descended the mountain to the Sea of Galilee, had devotions on the boat, saw a beautiful sunset over the mountains with a tiny sliver of a moon while we headed to the shore.
Drove to Nazareth for our evening meal, had our time of debriefing and since it is about 10:30, will soon be heading to bed. Five days completed, five days to go.
No comments:
Post a Comment