Day 8 – Tuesday, September 22: Kusadasi (Ephesus) & Patmos
Following sailing through the night we arrived at Kusadasi (on the western coastline of Turkey). Today was another perfect weather day, with bright sunny day, blue skies and highs around 75. It was a day of connecting to Paul’s ministry once again (at Ephesus), but also John’s ministry as he authored Revelation from Patmos. The day started early, with a 6:45 a.m departure from the ship following breakfast. We read from Revelation 2 (about Ephesus losing their “first love).
Kusadasi
Here at Kusadasi (it means “bird island” in Turkish) is where we met our bus and local guide, Isa. Located on the western coastline of Turkey, this port city is a vacation and retirement locations for many Brits and Europeans. From here we drove directly to Ephesus.
Ephesus
We arrived in Ephesus at about 7:45 a.m. This was a massive port city back in the days of Paul. Today the water’s edge is about 4 miles away! Paul spent about 2.5 – 3 years here during his 3rd mission journey.
Starting from the upper part of the city and walking on the ancient 2nd century BC stone pavement (used by Paul later) towards the port, we past by a vast number of archaeological ruins. This included the odeon (small theater), statues, pillars, arches, inscriptions, public latrenes, and the Celsus Library (which dates to the early 2nd century AD). Sitting together in the agora, we read portions of Acts 19 about the dramatic event that took place in the grand theater. It held about 22,000 people! Seeing the city and knowing about the Temple of Artemis (Diana) that once stood here helped us understand the challenges Paul faced in sharing the kingdom message.
On the way back to the ship we made a stop at a local rug shop/store (it’s an unavoidable part of the excursion deal). It was very interesting to learn how Turkish rugs are made, whether from cotton, wool, or silk. Shortly after noon we re-boarded the ship and enjoyed lunch and some free time. It was fun being on the deck as the islands past by.
“It was another fabulous day as we visited Ephesus (in Turkey) and Patmos. We are having a great time, growing together in our walk of faith, making special friendships with one another, and glorying Jesus in worship!”
Patmos
As we set sail out of Kusadasi for the southwest, we past by the narrowest opening, with the coastline of Turkey on our left and the island of Samos on our right (Acts 20:15). Paul stopped here on this mountainous island at the end of his 3rd mission journey en route back to Jerusalem. Following passing Samos, we gathered for a brief teaching on the “world of Paul.”
Later in the afternoon we gathered on the top deck as we approached the island of Patmos. This island is another one of the picturesque Greek islands. While imprisoned on this island, the Apostle John wrote the Book of Revelation from here (Dr. John believes prior to 70 AD, not in 90 AD). To get to the island, we had to use tender boats. Upon arriving on the island, we gathered a short distance away from the port to read portions of Revelation 4 and 5. We celebrated the promise of Christ’s redemption and victory over evil, His Second Coming, and the establishment of a new (renewed) heaven and earth!
After the gathering, many walked up the hiking trail towards the Grotto of the Apocalypse (a very traditional stop where John supposedly was imprisoned and received his vision). The view from here is spectacular! While some continued higher, most returned to the port to enjoy walking around and shopping. We all took the tender boats back to the ship for dinner on our own. During the night hours while we sleep we sail to the island of Rhodes.
This visit to Patmos reminded us that Revelation is a victory book written by John who was exiled here, that gives praise and honor to Jesus Christ!
Day 9 – Wednesday: September 23: Rhodes & Lindos
