ISRAEL TOUR EXPERIENCES:

Days 1 & 2 – Friday/Saturday, May 5-6: Depart U.S.A. / Arrival in Israel

Our day of departure finally arrived! God brought together a total of 45 from all over the world, actually, for this May 2023 Israel trip, with an option to Jordan. Folks in the group arrived at various times, with the bulk of the group coming in the afternoon. The flight was long, however, finally flying over the coastline of Israel, with Tel Aviv in full view below, was beautiful!

Tel Aviv / Netanya

Upon arriving at the Ben Gurion Airport, 27 (of the 45) were greeted by our Israeli guide (Shlomo) and driver (David). After loading the bus we drove to our hotel in Netanya. It’s located right on the beach of the Mediterranean Sea! We checked in and enjoyed a wonderful dinner. Many also enjoyed a stroll/walk on the beach throughout the day as they arrived, with some enjoying a beautiful evening stroll on the coastline. We are all looking forward to our first full day here in Israel tomorrow!

Day 3 – Sunday, May 7: Caesarea, Mt. Carmel, Megiddo, Tel Jezreel, Mt. Gilboa, Precipice of Nazareth, Nazareth

Today was our first full day here in Israel and a great start to our trip. We made many biblical connections all day long. While the morning started with a cloud cover, we enjoyed the sun and partly cloudy skies the rest of the day, with high temps in the mid 70s. We read from Psalm 44:8 as we left the hotel at 7:35.

Caesarea

Our first stop here in the Sharon Plain was Caesarea. This was an impressive coastal city built by Herod the Great over a 12 year period (22-10 BC). In the theater we read from Acts 8 (Phillip), 9 (Paul), 10 (Peter), Acts 12 (Agrippa 1), Acts 21 (Philip), and Acts 26 (Paul). From here we walked across the city to see the palace, hippodrome, the location of the grand harbor, and the Crusader gate, wall, and mote. We also saw an impressive porphyry (purple) statue, probably that of Hadrian. Before we left the site, we saw the aqueduct that brought water into the city.

Mt. Carmel

Following an early lunch (to beat the crowds), our second destination of the day was to Mt. Carmel, a mountain range overlooking the Jezreel Valley on one side and the Mediterranean Sea on the other. Since the Carmelite chapel called Muhraha was closed, we took the trail that led us to a great view of there Jezreel Valley below. Here we cold see Mt. Gilboa (1 Samuel 31), the Hill of Moreh (Judges 6-7, 2 Kings 4), Mt. Tabor (Judges 4-5), and Nazareth (Luke 1,4). We read passages such as Isaiah 35, Amos 1 & 9, 2 Kings 4, Songs of Songs 7, and 1 Kings 18 that reference Mt. Carmel. This last narrative captures the confrontation that took place between Elijah and the prophets of Baal! 

Megiddo

Located along the edge of the Jezreel Valley is Megiddo. This archaeological site was about 25 layers of occupation spanning a period of about 2,500 years! It was a Canaanite and Israelite city. Pharaohs like Thutmose III conquered it in 1468 BC. Climbing the site, we saw 3 series of city gates, Solomon’s stables and palace, a sacrificial altar from the Early Bronze Period, and a grain silo. We left the site be descending down through the water system that was engineered to bring water safely inside the walls of the city. We also had a great view of the Jezreel Valley referred to as the Valley of Armageddon in Revelation 16. In the end, God wins when Jesus returns!

Tel Jezreel & Mt. Gilboa

Further east is Tel Jezreel. While there is really not much to see archaeologically here, we read from 1 Kings 21 and 2 Kings 8-9. These stories reference Naboth (who had a vineyard), Joram, Jehu, and Jezebel. High up on the slopes of the Gilboa Range nearby we walked to a wonderful view of the Harod Valley. Looking east we could see Beth Shean. We read from 1 Samuel 31 about Saul and his three sons dying on Gilboa.

Precipice of Nazareth

To end the day we drove north across this broad part of the Jezreel Valley to get to the Precipice of Nazareth. The visibility from here of Mt. Tabor, the Hill or Moreh, Gilboa, and Mt. Carmel to the west was impressive! To the east we could even see the Hills of Gilead across the Jordan Valley (in Jordan today). We considered the life of Jesus as read from Luke 4 and John 1.

From here we drove to our hotel here in Nazareth. Upon arriving, we enjoyed dinner and a free evening. What a great first full day!

Day 4 – Monday, May 8: Sepphoris, Kh. Cana/Beit Netofa Valley, Mt. Of Beatitudes, Capernaum

Today was another great day. The weather was perfect, with mostly sunny skies and temps in the mid 70s. The day included going to a site where no other “DeLancey” group (or any group for that matter) ever went, Khirbet Cana! It was day that was both adventurous and inspirational as we began to connect with the life and ministry of Jesus. We left the hotel at 7:35, reading from John 4 on our way to our first site.

Sepphoris

Our first site, Sepphoris (called Zippori in Hebrew) was only a 20 minute drive from Nazareth. This was the most prominent Jewish yet Hellenized city in the Lower Galilee in the days of Jesus. As a young boy and as an itinerate rabbi, Jesus must visited this city many times even though it is not mentioned in the Gospels specifically by name. We saw impressive stone streets/pavements, a small theater, and many beautiful mosaics here. This included the famous “Mono Lisa of the Galilee” mosaic.

Khirbet Cana (Biblical Cana)

From here we drove north through a few Arab cities (Arrabe) to get to the northern side of the Beit Netofa Valley. We took a dirt road to get to Khirbet Cana. Most in the group climbed up to the top of this very “off the beaten path” archaeological site. While standing in what was possibly the 1st century synagogue we read from John 2 about Jesus turning water into wine here. Cana is also mentioned in the end of John 4. We were the first “DeLancey” group ever to come here (and no doubt the only “tourist” group ever to come here too)!! It was so fun and exciting to be where where Jesus miraculous power was displayed!

Mt. of Beatitudes

Because the road to “Hill 713” in the Upper Galilee was closed, we drove to the northwest corner of the Sea of Galilee. Here we visited the traditional Mt. of Beatitudes (since our usual place is now blocked off with a high fence and gate). Sitting on the side of the hill, we heard Shlomo read the Beatitudes in Hebrew. We visited the chapel (designed by the Italian Antonio Barluzzi in the 1930s) and the grounds before loading back on the buses.

Capernaum

Close by down on the shoreline of the lake is the location of Capernaum. This was the “home base” for his ministry here in the Galilee. Gathered in the 5th century synagogue (with he 1st century one below us), we read from Mark 1,2; Luke 7,8; and John 6. We also saw many 1st century house structure ruins dating to the time of Jesus. After going into the chapel to see the suggested “house of Peter” (seen below through the plexiglass floor), we ended our visit down on the shoreline of the lake. Here we read the tender passage recored in Mark 9 about humility and servanthood. We enjoyed a time of quiet reflection on the rocks of the lake before returning to the bus.

We drove to our “kibbutz-hotel” ( Nof Ginnosar) where we checked in and had some free time before dinner. Following another great meal we walked down to the water’s edge to enjoy the beauty of the evening!

Day 5 – Tuesday, May 9: Hippos/Susita, Qatzrin, Syrian Border, Caesarea Philippi, Dan

We enjoyed another day of sun and great weather, with high temperatures in the low 80s. We spent most of the day in the Golan Heights. We looked both the Syrian and Lebanese borders up north. Following breakfast we left the hotel at 7:35. We read from Matthew 4 (the calling of for of the disciples) as we began our drive to our first stop of the day.

Hippos/Sussita

We traveled around the north end of the lake, passing by traditional sites connected with Jesus. We also passed by two possible locations for Bethsaida, the home of Peter, Andrew, and Philip (John 1). The Feeding of the 5,000 took place in a remote area near this fishing village. We then turned south on the east side towards Hippos/Sussita. On the way we made a brief stop to see the cliffs mentioned in Mark 5. At Hippos (a Decapolis city), we saw many Roman ruins. During the Byzantine Period (4th-6th centuries AD), there were no less than a half a dozen churches were built here. With a great view of the lake, we read the transformational story of the demoniac from Mark 5. We also enjoyed singing a few worship songs together.

Katzrin

Further north is Katzrin. Here is an ancient Talmudic Village that dates from the 3rd-7th centuries AD. The pomegranate trees were in full bloom. Among the ruins we saw the synagogue and house structures, including a partially-restored house. However, in the completely reconstructed stone house we gathered to hear the story of Mark 2. We could see the story unfolding before our very eyes!

Syrian Border

Continuing northward, we stopped for a brief stop to look over into Syria. The view into Syria, including the city of Kuneitra, was fairly good. Shlomo talked about the 1967 and 1973 wars and the significance of Israel maintaining control of the Golan Heights.

Caesarea Philippi

Driving past the partially snow-capped Mt. Hermon (Psalm 42, 89, 133, Song of Songs 4) we drove down off the Golan Heights we visited Caesarea Philippi. This was a pagan city in the days of Jesus that included temples to Augustus, Zeus (Jupiter), and Nemesis. The Pan deity was especially honored here. With several niches dedicated to him. It was good to see that recent excavations of the Augustus Temple revealed amazing mosaics and other structures. The Banias Spring begins here, one of the three tributaries of the Upper Jordan River. It was in the region of this city that Jesus asked, “Who do you say I am?” (Matthew 16).

Tel Dan

Our last site of the day was Tel Dan. We walked through the beautiful nature preserve along the Dan Spring. We stopped by the water to hear Shlomo play another song on his recorder. We also read from (and sang) Psalm 42, As the Deer. We continued our walk to the culture center. Here, Jeroboam built an altar and set a golden calf on the high place. Sitting on the steps of the high place, we read from Judges 18 and 1 Kings 12. We also overlooked the border with Lebanon. Before leaving, we saw the Canaanite mud brick gate (Abraham’s gate?) and the 9th century BC Israelite gate complex. Just outside this gate was where the famous Dan Inscription was found.

We drove south along the Huleh Valley back to our hotel, passing the large 200 acre Canaanite city of Hazor on the way (Joshua 11). Once again, we enjoyed a huge dinner and a free evening.

Day 6 – Wednesday, May 10: Arbel, Yardenit, Magdala, Chorazin, Bethsaida, Ancient Boat, Sea of Galilee Boat Ride

We spent the entire day around and even on the Sea of Galilee. We literally retraced the footsteps of Jesus. It was an very inspirational day! Today was the warmest day so far, with sunny skies and highs in the upper 80s. We left the hotel at 7:35, reading Matthew 13 as we drove to our first stop.

Mt. Arbel

The drive from the hotel to the trailhead of Mt. Arbel took only five minutes. Eighteen in the group hiked to the top (1.6 miles and little over 1,000 foot in elevation gain), while others bussed around to the other side and ascended to the top from there. The view was stunning even though it was hazy. While we cannot be sure (since Arbel is not mentioned in the Gospels), maybe this was where the Jesus’ Transfiguration took place (Mt. 17), or where he taught (perhaps on the lower northern slopes) the Sermon on the Mount (Mt. 5-7). It is also very possible that on top of Arbel was where Jesus met His disciples following His resurrection and shared the Great Commission (Mt. 28).

Yardenit

Following our time at Arbel, we drove to the southern end of the lake to Yardenit. Sixteen in the group reaffirmed their faith as they were immersed in the waters of the Jordan River. The water was refreshing but not overly cold (as it is in the winter months). It was a special time for everyone, setting ourselves apart for service in God’s kingdom.

Kinneret Cemetery

From the southern end of the lake we now drove north along the southwestern shoreline of the lake. We included an extra stop at the Kinneret Cemetery. This is where an early Jewish pioneer woman named “Rachel” is buried. Shlomo shared about her life. She was an Ukrainian Jew who wrote poems, some of which were put to songs. She died in 1931.

Magdala

From here we drove north of Tiberias to the Plain of Genesseret. Following a very tasty fish and salad lunch we visited the ancient city of Magdala. This was a large Jewish city in the days of Jesus. We saw a modest 1st century synagogue here. Although the city is only mentioned once (Matthew 16), Jesus must have taught here. We  saw a few more ritual baths as well.

Chorazin

We drove back to the northwest corner of of the lake to Chorazin. It is located on a ridge high above the lakeshore of the Sea of Galilee. The ruins date to the 3rd century AD. We saw a very well-preserved wine press as well as the synagogue. During the Covid season, archaeologists excavated below the present 3rd century level to expose the 1st century level. Perhaps a synagogue dating to the time of Jesus was uncovered? We also saw the Moses Seat here. We read from Matthew 25 concerning Jesus’ harsh words to the Pharisees.

Tel el- Araj (Bethsaida?)

We added an extra visit to the program and made a quick stop off the beaten path to Tel el-Araj. This is a new archaeological site (that takes another dirt road to get there) thought to be biblical Bethsaida! While the ruins exposed were covered up, there have been 1st century mosaics found here, as well as what is believed to be the Church of the Apostles that date to the 6th century AD. For sure though, this was the home of Peter, Andrew, and Philip (John 1). We also read from Mark 8 (the blind man healed by Jesus) and Luke 9 (the Feeding of the 5,000).

Ancient Boat / Boat Ride

We ended the day back to Nof Ginnosar. In the museum here we saw an ancient 1st century wooden boat that was discovered in 1986. We then walked out to the dock for our own boat ride. We enjoyed a time of worship and the reading of Mark 4 and Matthew 14, the two storm narratives. We keep our eyes on Jesus! He is the One who brings peace to our lives!

We walked back to our hotel rooms to freshen up for dinner. A free evening of leisure followed. Some even went swimming in the lake!

Day 7 – Thursday, May 11: Beth Shean, Shiloh, Jericho, Judean Desert, Ein Bokek, Dead Sea

Today we drove south. Our end-of-day destination was the southern end of the Dead Sea (Ein Bokek). Once again, we made many biblical connections with the sites we visited. The weather was on the warm side, with full sun and highs in the low 90s by the time we got to Jericho. We read the other kingdom parables from Matthew 13 after we loaded the bus and departed the hotel at 7:35.

Beth Shean

Leaving Nof Ginnosar, we traveled south of the Sea of Galilee nearly 20 miles through the Jordan Valley to Beth Shean. The ride took about an hour and a half. This ancient site is an incredibly large site, with many ruins from the Roman Period. We saw colonnaded streets, the bathhouse, agora, public latrenes, and the theater. Some in the group climbed to the top of the OT site. According to 1 Samuel 31 (and 1 Chronicles 10), the body of Saul was hung on the walls of the town square after he died on near by Mt. Gilboa. The men from Jabesh Gilead (located on the east side of the Jordan Valley), came at night to rescue the body of Saul.

Shiloh

Next, we drove into the Hill Country of Ephraim to Shiloh. On the way, we drove throw the Hill Country of Samaria. We even saw a boar (a first here!). When we arrived, we made our way up this ancient site where the Tabernacle once stood here for over 300 years. It was destroyed by the Philistines (1 Samuel 4). We watched a short movie about the events that took place here. We also read from 1 Samuel 3 (the call of Samuel) and Jeremiah 7. Among the ruins we saw a massive Middle Bronze wall that was incorporated into the Israelite site. Other structures, including perhaps the Holy of Holies area (as proposed by archaeologist Dr. Scott Stripling) could also be seen. It was young Samuel who said, “Hineni” (“Here I am!”) When God called Him into service.

Jericho

From Shiloh we took a unique road through the Parat Desert (part of the Judean Desert) on our way to Jericho. We past by Bethel (Genesis 12) and Mishmash (1 Samuel 13-14) before descending down to the Parat (Jeremiah 13). We even saw a few gazelles! We finally arrived at Jericho. After a late lunch we visited Tel es-Sultan, or Old Testament Jericho. We first looked east and could see the Jordan Valley, with Mt. Nebo on the ridge on the horizon (Dt. 34). Elijah was taken to heaven in the area across the river (2 Kings 2). Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River at “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (John 1). Looking south we could see the area of NT Jericho (where Zachaeus and Bartimeaus lived, and where Herod the Great died in 4 BC). We then turned our attention to the ancient OT site of Jericho. The archaeology of this ancient site of Jericho supports and confirms the Bible’s historicity. Besides seeing the oldest structure (a round tower) in Israel, on the southern end we saw the double retaining walls of this Canaanite city taken my Joshua (Joshua 6). A mud brick wall once stood on top of these stone walls. They came tumblin down.

Dead Sea

Driving about an hour south along the western side was beautiful. We arrived at our hotel at Ein Bokek located on the Dead Sea. After checking in we enjoyed floating on this unique body of water (33% salt and minerals). We had dinner and we overnighted here.

Day 8 – Friday, May 12: Masada, Ein Gedi, Qumran, Wilderness of Judah, Jerusalem

Today was another hot day, with sunny skies and highs in the mid 90s. This is to be expected here this time of year along the Dead Sea on the edge of the Judean Desert. We spent the entire day in the desert before arriving in Jerusalem in the Hill Country of Judah tonight. We read from Psalm 18 as we departed the hotel this morning.

Masada

We drove north about 15 minutes to get to the eastern side of Masada, a palace-fortress built by King Herod in the 30s BC. We all took the cable car to the top. Among the ruins we saw the casemate wall, huge cisterns, the synagogue, the northern palace, storehouses, and the bathhouse. The courageous story of Masada (with 967 using the site as a place of refuge) is both incredible and inspiring! We all took the cable car down and loaded in our bus.

Ein Gedi

From here we drove further north along the western shoreline of the Dead Sea to Ein Gedi. Together we walked into the canyon (Wadi David) where we stopped to read from Song of Songs 1 (mentioning the henna blossoms), 2 Chronicles 20 (mentioning the Ascent of Ziz), and 1 Samuel 24 (the David and Saul “cave encounter”). About half the group walked back to the far water falls while others enjoyed the first falls. Many in the group enjoyed getting wet under the waterfalls! It was a refreshing experience!

Qumran

About a 25 minute drive further north took us to where the most significant discovery in all of Israel were found in 1947, the Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran. We arrived here for a late lunch. Some in the group skipped lunch and hiked up to see Cave 6 (one of 12 caves in which fragment of scrolls were found) ant the unique aqueduct tunnel. After lunch, we visited the site itself where we saw many miqvot (plural for mikve, or ritual baths), cisterns, and the scriptorium. In front of Cave 4 (and 5 & 10), we read from Psalm 19 and “151,” an extra psalm found here. We also remembered 2 Timothy 3:16 about God’s inspired Word. Thanks be to God for the preservation of His Word and the joy, instruction, direction, and hope it provides us!

NT Jericho/Herod’s Palace, Wadi Qelt

On our way to Jerusalem we made a brief stop to overlook the area of New Testament Jericho and Herod the Great’s winter palace. Herod died here in 4 BC. Next, we drove through the Wadi Qelt/Judean Desert to the Greek Orthodox monastery (called St. George). It is incredibly built right into the edge of the cliff. We heard “the prophet Isaiah” share the opening words of Isaiah 40 with us. Shlomo also sang Psalm 23 in Hebrew.

Jerusalem

Continuing our drive west to the Hill Country of Judah, we arrived in Jerusalem where we checked into our hotel. Following a very good “Shabbat” dinner, many of us walked to the Western Wall. It was crowded with Orthodox Jews. The experience was surreal! We are looking forward to our first full day here in Jerusalem tomorrow.

Day 9 – Saturday, May 13: Mt. of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Shepherds’ Fields, Bethlehem, Herodium

This was our first day in Jerusalem. This capital city of Israel is full of history and archaeology that connects us to the Bible. The weather was perfect, with partly sunny skies and highs in the low 70s. We read from Psalm 125:1-2 as we left the hotel at 7:40.

Mt. of Olives/Gethsemane

Our first stop of the day was the Mt. of Olives. We drove around the north side of the Old City, passing the Damascus and Herod Gates on the way. Cresting the Mt. of Olives we drove to a spectacular view across the Kidron Valley of the Old City and Temple Mount below. From here we walked down to Dominus Flavet, a small chapel where we enjoyed singing a few songs together. Here we read from Luke 19 (Palm Sunday), Acts 1 (Christ’s ascension), and Zechariah 14 (about the return of Christ). Continuing down the slope towards the Church of All Nations (the traditional Garden of Gethsemane), we walked up to an olive tree park where we considered the passion of Jesus (Luke 22). Somewhere on these slopes Jesus prayed, “Not my will but Yours be done!”

Bethlehem/Shepherd’s Fields

Just to the south of Jerusalem is the area of Bethlehem. We began In Beit Sahour (an eastern adjacent Arab town) and visited the Shepherds’ Fields. We descended down into a large cave where we read from Micah 2, 4, and 5 and Luke 2 about the birth of Jesus. It was “just at the right time God sent His Son” (Galatians 4:4). We also sang a few carols in the Chapel of the Shepherds.

After lunch, we drove into Bethlehem and visited an olive wood factory and story (Nissan Brothers). These olive wood products were impressive and so well crafted.

Herodium

We drove back through Beit Sahour and a few miles further south to Herodium. This was a palace-fortress built by Herod the Great. He was also buried in 4 BC. The site was incredible, with many new renovations and displays. Inside the well-preserved official’s chamber where we saw a wonderful presentation. We then walked up through the royal arches to the top where we saw the bathhouse, synagogue, impressive frescoes, and a great view of Jerusalem. We left the site by carefully walking down through the cistern system.

From Herodium we drove back to our hotel in Jerusalem for dinner and a free evening.

Day 10 – Sunday, May 14: Yad Vashem, Israel Museum, the ‘Shephelah” (Lowlands): Gezer, Beth Shemesh, Azekah

Today began with a very solemn visit to Israel’s Holocaust Museum & Memorial and ended with a fun and inspiring visit of the Elah Valley where David defeated Goliath and the Philistines. The weather was once again perfect, with sunny skies and high temps in the 70s. Our morning jackets were quickly shed as it warmed up.

Yad Vashem

Our first stop in the morning required us to drive to West Jerusalem. Here we visited the Israel’s Holocaust Museum & Memorial. It is called Yad Vashem, named after a verse in Isaiah 56:5 that mentions the “memorial and a name.” We first visited the Valley of the Communities. Here we heard the personal story from Shlomo about his family during this tragic event. He lost 12 family members in Vilna, Poland (pictured). We then walked through the Children’s Memorial and the museum itself. It was a somber experience recalling the horrors of the Holocaust and the loss of six million Jews.

Israel Museum

Just a short distance away (still in Western Jerusalem) is the Israel Museum. First, we saw 1:50 scale model of 2nd Temple Jerusalem. Next, we went through the Shrine of the Book where some of the Dead Sea Scrolls are displayed. Finally, we saw some of the “highlight artifacts” in the archaeological museum that relate to the Bible.

Gezer

In the afternoon, we descended west to the Shephelah (lowlands) of Judah. Our first stop was Tel Gezer. Located on the Aijalon Valley, this was both a Canaanite and Israelite city, full of walls, towers, and gates. We saw the replica of the “Gezer Calendar.” We also read from Ecclesiastes 3 about the “seasons of life.” From the observation mound we saw the Aijalon Valley mentioned in Joshua 10. Among the Middle Bronze ruins many of us used the new steel stairway down to the bottom of the water system (175 steps down). This water system was originally used by Canaanites. We then left these Canaanite ruins and continued to the Israelite (Iron Age) area to see ancient house structures and a chambered gate dating to Solomon (1 Kings 9). Walking back to the bus we saw the Canaanite high place and standing stones.

Beth Shemesh

From here we continued south to visit the site of Beth Shemesh. Located along the Sorek Valley, Beth Shemesh was a prominent Israelite town known for their many water cisterns. Across the valley is Zorah, the hometown of Samson (Judges 13-16). Further west down the valley was the Philistine city of Timnah where Samson’s first wife was from (only 3.5 miles away). We also read the narrative of 1 Samuel 6 about the Ark of the Covenant being returned to Israel by the Philistines living in Ekron. We could see the story unfold right before our very eyes! The battle between Amaziah and Joash also took place here (2 Chronicles 25).

Socoh

Continuing south, we climbed the site of Tel Socoh. This ancient city located along the heart of the Elah Valley has been not excavated, yet mentioned in the story of 1 Samuel 17 (the Philistines camped on the ride between Azekah and Socoh). It was in the narrow part of the valley where David battled Goliath. David faced the battle with this giant in the confidence of the Lord! We can face our battles with the same confidence!

We returned back to the Hill Country of Judah by taking a unique two-land road back to Jerusalem and our hotel. Following dinner, we enjoyed another optional walk (the Promenade).

Day 11 – Monday, May 15: Eastern Gate, Pools of Bethesda/St. Anne’s Church, Western Wall, Southern Wall Excavations, City of David, Hezekiah’s Tunnel, Siloam Pool, Holy Sepulcher Church, Free Time, Garden Tomb

Today was our last day here in Jerusalem. The day included a mix of Old and New Testament connections, especially associated with the City of David and the Temple Mount. Once again, we enjoyed sunny skies, with warmer temps of about 80. Ending with a service at the Garden Tomb was a special end to the Israel portion of the trip!

Eastern Gate/Pools of Bethesda/St. Anne’s Church

Our day began by driving to the north side of the Old City. Getting off the bus we then walked to the Eastern Gate (Ezekiel 44) and then through the Lion’s Gate (also Called St. Stephen’s and Jericho Gate). We visited St. Anne’s Church, a Crusader Church with a 6-7 second echo. We enjoyed singing here! Next to the church is the Pools of Bethesda. We read John 5 of the miracle that took place here.

Western Wall/Southern Wall Excavations

Next, we walked to the Western Wall. This wall served as one of the four retaining walls for the expanded platform of Herod’s Temple, a project he began in 20 BC. We moved on to the SW corner of the Temple where we walked on the Herodian pavement. This corner may have been the pinnacle of the Temple where Jesus was tempted (Mt. 4). We walked up the southern steps used by commoners in Jesus’ day. Jesus Himself would have used these steps to enter the Temple. We recalled the many mentioned in the NT who used these steps (Luke 2, 18; John 2; Mark 13; and Acts 2, etc…). Before leaving the steps, we considered how God wants us to be His spiritual temple (2 Corinthians 3).

City of David

From here we continued walking south to the City of David. After gathering on the observation tower, we walked down through the excavations (“Area G”). We saw David’s palace, city walls, and 7th-6th BC house structures (one of them was excavated/uncovered by Dr. John in June-July, 1982). We all continued through Warren’s Shaft (2 Samuel 5). The upper part of this discovery was probably used by David but not the vertical 52 foot shaft. Finally, we descended down to the Canaanite/Jebusite pool to the Gihon Spring. Many in the group braved the waters of the 1,710 foot-long Hezekiah’s Tunnel (2 Kings 20, 2 Chronicles 32), while others took the “dry” Jebusite tunnel built 100s of years earlier. Both groups met at the Pool of Siloam where we read John 9 in dramatic fashion.

Holy Sepulcher Church / Free Time

We boarded back on the bus and drove to the Jaffa Gate. In the Christian Quarter of the Old City, we went inside the Holy Sepulcher Church. Built in 325 AD, this is the traditional location for the death and burial place of Jesus. The archaeological and historical records favor this site. We saw the Edicule that has enclosed the suggested tomb of Christ for now nearly 1600 years. We also enjoyed some free time. It was fun exploring the streets and alleyways of the Old City on our own.

Garden Tomb

We returned to Jerusalem to visit the Garden Tomb. This is an alternative location for the crucifixion and burial site of Jesus. We saw the rocky scarp (Golgotha) and the proposed tomb. A special time of worship and Communion followed. We worship the Person, not the place. What a great way to end our trip together!

With many of us flying home tonight, we enjoyed our farewell dinner in a local restaurant inside the Old City in the Armenian Quarter. We shared in good conversation, thankful to God for the great experiences we encountered. Those who had night flights back to the States were then driven to the airport, while others we taken back to the hotel. The end of a great trip!

Day 12 – Tuesday, May 16: Arrival Back in the States or Crossing into Jordan: Allenby Bridge, Bethany Beyond the Jordan, Wadi Mujib, Mt. Nebo, Medeba

Those who flew back last night (or early this morning) arrived safely back in the States. Seventeen of us continued our journey to Jordan. We left at 7:15 after breakfast and loading our bus. The day was much warmer, with hazy sun and highs in the afternoon at Bethany Beyond the Jordan at 107! Toasty but a “dry heat.” The water experience at Wadi Wujib earlier cooled us down!

Allenby Bridge Border Crossing

While reading Psalm 148 as we left the hotel, we drove east out of Jerusalem to the Jericho area. Slightly north of Jericho is the Allenby Bridge border crossing into the Hashemite country of Jordan. Crossing the border required patience (as always), but we made it across without issue. We met our Jordanian driver (Halid) and our guide (Sammy). Following the usual passport procedures, we ascended across the Plain of Moab to our first remarkable visit, Wadi Wujib

Wadi Mujib (Arnon)

It took us only about 40 minutes to drive to what the Bible called the Arnon River (Numbers 21:13, 14, 24; 22:36, Judges 11:13, etc…). The Arnon served as a natural boundary between ancient Moabites and the Ammonites. Today is is called the Wadi Mujib. This was an amazingly beautiful place and an incredible experience! Equipped with good water shoes and life jackets, we literally walked up through the water of the wadi (river). The current was swift, with the water over our heads at times. We used ropes and even ladders to ascend further up the wadi. Wadi Wujib is one of the most beautiful places in all of Jordan!

Bethany Beyond the Jordan

After changing back into dry clothes, we bussed back north along the eastern shoreline of the Dead Sea to Bethany Beyond the Jordan. It was now 107 degrees when we began our walk down to the Jordan River. This area is known for where Elijah ascended into heaven in a fiery chariot (2 Kings 2), and where Jesus was baptized (John 1). Jesus also came to this area of Parea on occasion, especially where John was baptizing (John 10).

Mt. Nebo

Our last stop of the day was up to Mt. Nebo, part of the Pisgah Range. The visibility was very poor, not even allowing us to see Jericho on the west side of the Jordan River. We read portions from Deuteronomy 31-34 and Joshua 1 about the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua. A Bronze Snake monument is erected here (Numbers 21, John 3). We also saw the newly renovated church here built upon the Byzantine Church from the 4-5th centuries AD.

Medeba

From here we drove to Medeba. After making a brief stop as a mosaic school and store, we continued to our hotel. We enjoyed dinner here, followed by a free evening. We are all looking forward to experiencing Petra tomorrow.

(Expanded photo gallery today!)

Day 13 – Wednesday, May 17: Drive to Wadi Musa, Petra

This morning we drove 3.5 hours to Petra! We stopped along the way once for restrooms and snacks. It was not as hot as yesterday, but still the sun was intense, with highs in the low 90s.  For the most part, we used the newly-paved Desert Highway before exiting on to the King’s Highway (Numbers 21-22). It was an incredible day exploring this ancient Nabatean city and one of the Seven Wonders of the World! 

Petra

As we left the hotel, we read from Numbers 22-23. As we arrived in Wadi Musa (Petra), we first pre-checked into our hotel (an upgrade to a 5+) before walking to the entrance of the site.

This ancient Nabatean city was built within the Seir Mountains, the land of the Edomites (Deuteronomy 2, 33; Ezekiel 35). We all thoroughly enjoyed the spectacular scenery and tombs/ruins of this red-rose ancient city. Once we entered the site, we all walked through the Siq (canyon) which brought us to the first monument, “The Treasury” (“Al-Khazneh”). This well-preserved monumental tomb appeared in the movie “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.” It was the tomb of the Nabatean King named Aretas III (Paul mentions his son, Aretas IV in 2 Cor. 11:32). His daughter (or granddaughter – depending on dating) was the former wife of Herod Antipas, see Matthew 14).

From the Treasury we now began our walk into the city. Besides passing by many of the Nabatean tombs, we walked by a 3,000-seat theater carved into the sandstone, one of the largest theaters in Jordan. From here, a few in the group walked to the Monastery Tomb at the far west side of Petra, while others explored on their own (e.g. the Royal Tombs). The Aravah and Negev of Israel could be seen in the haze to the west from the area of the Monastery.

We all returned back to the hotel at our own pace. We enjoyed a wonderful dinner and a restful evening!

Day 14 – Thursday, May 18: Karak Castle, Machaerus, Madaba Map/Madaba

Today was our very last day of the trip. It was a driving day (back north), with three visits to sites along the way. The weather was much cooler, making it a nice mix of sun and 70s as highs. Following a great breakfast, we loaded the bus one more time and began our drive. We read from Obadiah 1 on the way.

Karak Castle

Our first stop on our drive back to the Medeba area was to the Karak Castle.  This site is the most impressive Crusader castle in the entire Middle East! In the days of the Old Testament, it was probably Kir Haraseth (2 Kings 3:25; Isaiah 16:7; Jeremiah 48:31, 36).  It was quite massive, with high fortification walls, large cisterns for water, and deep dungeons. The Crusaders maintained control of this castle until it fell to the Arab invader Saladin. It was a fun site to explore!

Machaerus

About 20 miles south of Medeba is Machaerus. Originally built by the Hasmoneans and then taken by Pompey in 63 BC, Herod the Great eventually reestablished it as another “palace-fortress.” It is located on the east side of the Dead Sea. This was where John the Baptist was be-headed (Matthew 14). Many of us climbed to the top to see where the head of John the Baptist was offered to Herod Antipas (the “throne room”). On top were a few ritual baths too. Although it was hazy looking westward, we could clearly see the Dead Sea and the vicinity of Ein Gedi on the other side.

Madaba Map

Your last visit took us back to Madaba (Medeba in the Bible) to see the famous 6th century Madaba Map of the region. This is the oldest map in antiquities. Today it can be displayed in the St. George Church. It was discovered in the late 1800s. The map displays not only the region of Israel, Jordan, and the Sinai, but Jerusalem is highly detailed as well. Madaba is Sammy’s home town, so we also enjoyed meeting his wife and his store.

We returned to our hotel for our last official dinner together. We all fly home tomorrow at various times. It’s been a great extension to Jordan!

Day 15 – Friday, May 19: Flight from Amman back to the U.S.