Days 1 & 2 – Saturday-Sunday, October 10-11: Depart U.S. / Arrival in Tel Aviv, Israel, Netanya

The day finally arrived… we are heading to Israel! God brought a total of 21 of us together for this group. We used several different flights in order to arrive at the Ben Gurion Airport. We were met by our Israeli agent who assisted us through the airport. Following gathering our luggage, seventeen of us boarded our bus drivers by David to Netanya. Two already arrived at the hotel while  two more fly in later tonight. On board on the bus with us was Shlomo, our guide for the Israel portion of the trip.

Once we arrived at the hotel, we enjoyed an optional stroll down to the shoreline of the Mediterranean Sea prior to dinner at 7 p.m. Following an amazing buffer dinner (this won’t be too hard to get used to HA), some walked around the town square of Netanya. We are all looking forward to our first full day tomorrow here in Israel!

Day 3 – Monday, October 12: Caesarea, Carmel, Megiddo, Precipice of Nazareth, Tiberias 

Today was our first full day here in Israel. We are all excited to engage with the Bible and the primary land where biblical events took place. The day’s weather was very nice, with a mild start to the day and a warm afternoon. We had partly sunny skies and highs in the 80s. After a wonderful full breakfast, we loaded the bus and left about 7:40. We read Psalm 100 and were introduced to the “Oh, the Sun’s Coming Up…” song. 🙂 as we drove north to our first site.

Caesarea Maritima

We drove north in the Sharon Plain to get to our first site, Caesarea Maritima. It was a city built between 22-10 BC by Herod the Great.We started the the theater where we read portions of Acts 8, 9, 10, 12, 21, and 26. Peter, Phillip, and Paul were all here sharing their faith in Christ. Among the ruins the praetorium (palace, where we saw a replica of the Pilate Inscription found in 1961 in secondary use), hippodrome, and the area of the harbor. We then entered the Crusader part of the city. We saw a short 10 minute movie about Herod and Caesarea. Before leaving the site, we also saw the aqueduct that brought fresh water into Caesarea from the Carmel Range.

Carmel Range

Leaving Caesarea, we drove through the Carmel Range (or Mt. Carmel). This range separates the Sharon Plain with the Jezreel Valley. We drove to the top of this range called Muhraha. In the Carmelite Chapel we gathered were we read from Isaiah 35, Amos 1 and 9, and Song of Songs 7, all passages that mention the Carmel. We also read portions of the primary story that happened here from from 1 Kings 18. This involved Elijah confronting the 450 prophets of Baal. From the roof of the chapel we enjoyed our first view of the Jezebel Valley below. It was quite hazy, but at least we could appreciate the size of this valley.

Following the visit to Muhraha, we enjoyed a wonderful buffet lunch at a Druze restaurant owned by a dear and wonderful family. Some of us even had a magnum ice cream bar for desert. 🙂

Megiddo

As we drove along the edge of the Jezreel Valley arrived at Megiddo, an archaeological site that has about 25 levels of occupation that span 2,500 years! After seeing a model of the tel (ancient mound), we walked to the top of this Canaanite/Israelite site. We saw two Canaanite gate complexes, the gate, stables and palace area of Solomon (1 Kings 9:15), a sacrificial altar (Canaanite), and a grain silo. The also enjoyed a great view of the surrounding hills from here and the valley itself (Revelation 16:16). We left the site by descending 180 steps down through the impressive water system that was designed and engineered to safely bring water into the city. It was remarkable to experience this amazing engineering project.

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 view from here of Mt. Tabor (Judges 4-5), the Hill of Moreh (Judges 6-7, 2 Kings 4), Gilboa (1 Samuel 31), and even Mt. Carmel (1 Kings 18) to the west was impressive (the morning haze dissipated a little)! We considered the life of Jesus as we read from Luke 4 and John 1.

Tiberias/Sea of Galilee

It took about an hour (driving past the modern Arab town of Cana, John 2 and 4) to arrive at our “kibbutz-hotel” north of Tiberias (Nof Ginnosar). It is located along the western coastline of the Sea of Galilee. After checking into our newly-renovated rooms, we enjoyed a wonderful dinner. Following eating together, we walked down to the water’s edge for a “Sea of Galilee” orientation. It was quite beautiful to see the shoreline and Tiberias all lit up. We retired to our rooms for a good nights rest. It was a great first full day! 

Day 4 – Tuesday, October 13: Hippos/Susita, Qatzrin, Syrian Border, Caesarea Philippi, Dan, “Hill 713” (Mitzpe Ha-Yammim)

Today we traveled north to the Golan Heights. It was another warm day, with hazy sun and highs in the upper 80s. Everywhere we went today we had every site to ourselves. We left the hotel at 7:20, reading Matthew 4 as we began our drive around the Sea of Galilee.

Hippos/Sussita

We first traveled north to the northern end of the lake. This is the location of Bethsaida, the home of Peter, Andrew, and Philip (John 1). We then turned south as we drove on the east side of the lake. We made a brief stop at the only “cliff” area on this side. No doubt this is where Mark 5 took place. We continued to Hippos/Sussita. Here 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 (which most likely happened down near the lakeshore). The view across the lake was fairly good, but with some haze in the sky.

Katzrin

Next, we drove back north to Katzrin, the largest city in the Golan Heights. We visited the Talmudic Village that is here (from about the 3rd-8th centuries AD). We saw good examples of olive presses, the synagogue, and other house structures. We then gathered in a completely-restored stone house where we read from Mark 2. We could see the story unfolding before our eyes!

Syrian Border/Qunetra

Next, we drove to the base of a IDF military establishment located on the border with Syria. Here, Shlomo shared with us some of the modern history between Israel and Syria (ie. 1967 and 1973 wars). We looked across to see Qunetra, once a Syrian town. Since the recent wars, Israel has maintained partial control of the areas across the border within Syria.

Caesarea Philippi/Banias

Descending down of the Golan Heights, we stopped at the archaeological site of Caesarea Philippi. This was a very pagan city in the days of Jesus and through the Roman Period. The city enjoyed the waters of the Banias Spring, one of the three tributaries of the Jordan. We read from Matthew 16 where Jesus asked His disciples the “final exam” question, “Who do you say I am?” Among the ruins at the Grotto once stood the Temples of Augustus, Zeus/Jupiter, Nemesis, the Shrine of the Dancing Goats, and the niches dedicated to Pan, the promiscuous shepherding god of the Greeks and Romans. Jesus promised the unstoppable force of the kingdom (i.e. “and the Gates of Hades will not prevail…”). Six days later, Jesus was transfigured (perhaps somewhere on the lower slopes of Mt. Hermon (Matthew 17).

Dan Nature Preserve & Archaeological Site

Nearby a short distance to the west is the Nature Preserve and archaeological site of Tel Dan. The Dan Spring served this ancient city originally called Laish. We walked along the river before the trail detoured us to another trail. This trail was very nice as it led us to the Iron Age/9th century BC Israelite gate and where the famous Dan Inscription was found in July, 1993. We then walked through the ruins to the cultic area of the altar and high place. We read from Judges 18 and 1 Kings 12 about the patterns of disobedience displayed here, starting with the Danites and continuing through Jereboam until Israel’s end in 722 BC. In the area of the cultic place, we looked into Lebanon, only a few miles to the north.

Leaving the site of Dan we saw the a mud-brick Middle Bronze gate (although probably not seen or used by Abraham). It was a terrific visit to this northern city on the border of Lebanon.

“Hill 713” (Mitzpe Ha-Yammim)

On the way back to Tiberias we added an extra site (originally scheduled for early tomorrow morning). This was a unique visit (and hike) to “Hill 713” (or Mitzpe Ha-Yammim in Hebrew, the “view of two seas”). We arrived at the trailhead at about 5:00 p.m.  and made it to the “view” (a .8 mile hike) about 25 minutes later. Located on part of the Meron Range, this viewpoint provides the very best view of the entire Sea of Galilee, the Lower Galilee areas, and the entire width of Israel! On a clear day one can even see as far west as Tel Aviv area and the Med Sea! However despite the afternoon haze in the sky, the visibility was still descent enough for us to see the outline of the lake, and most of the Lower Galilee.

We hiked back to the bus for the drive back to Nof Ginnosar. We arrived at 7:00 p.m. in time for a later dinner.

Day 5 – Wednesday, October 14: Arbel, Yardenit, Magdala, Capernaum, Ancient Boat, Sea of Galilee Boat Ride

Today was a day of focusing primarily on the life and ministry of Jesus! We spent the entire around (and on) the Sea of Galilee. The weather was once again predictably warm, with temps around 90. However, with the mostly cloudy skies, it was comfortable. We left the hotel this morning at 7:35. We read from Mark 2 as drove to Arbel.

Mt. Arbel

The drive to the trailhead that leads to the top of Mt. Arbel was a short one, only 5 minutes. Arbel is a mountain on the west side of the Sea of Galilee. Nine (9) in the group choose to hike the challenging trail that ascended to the top, while the others drove around the back side and walked to the top from the visitor center. Even though it was a bit hazy, the view of the lake from the top was spectacular. As we all gathered on top, we read from Matthew 5 (the “Beatitudes”). While there is a traditional Catholic location for the Mt. of Beatitudes, perhaps the lower slopes of Arbel served as the location where Jesus about the kingdom. The kingdom proclamation of Jesus was His “go-to” message throughout His ministry! Additionally, while we can’t know for sure, it could have been the top of this cliff where Jesus met His disciples after His resurrection and shared the “Great Commission” (Matthew 28). After walking down to the visitor center, we were treated to ice cream (thanks Amiel Tour) before getting back on the bus.

Yardenit/Jordan River Baptism

Next, we drove to the southern end of the lake where the Lower Jordan begins. Here, seven in the group reaffirmed their faith in baptism in the Jordan River at a place called Yardenit. Pastors Mark and John officiated the baptism. Jesus Himself was baptized at Bethany Beyond the Jordan located further south across from Jericho (John 1). The experience was special for all of us! While the water level was the lowest in years, we found a place close to the middle of the river for the baptism.

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 where 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 (the end of Matthew 15), Jesus must have taught here. We also saw a few mikvot (ritual baths) in another area of the excavations. We then visited the chapel here on the grounds of Magdala. Here, we saw the mural depicting the the healing of the woman with a bleeding issue (Luke 8), and other paintings of the four of the miracles Jesus did. We also enjoyed singing a few songs together under the great-acoustical rounded ceiling. We sounded like a heaven choir!

Capernaum

Our last archaeological site of the day,  Capernaum, is located on the NW corner of the lake. This Jewish town served as Jesus’ “home base” for His Galilean ministry. In the late 4th/early 5th century synagogue we recalled the stories from Mark 1, 2; Luke 7,8; and John 6. We also saw the Byzantine church, octagonal in shape, that dates to about the same time period. This ancient church surrounds a 1st century house structure suggested, by tradition and archaeology, to be Peter’s house. Down on the lakeshore, we ended with Mark 9. Serving in Christ’s kingdom requires a heart of humility and servanthood.

Ancient Boat / Sea of Galilee Boat Ride

Our last stop of the day was back to Tiberias where we embarked on our 45 minute boat ride. Before our hour-long sailing, we saw the ancient boat from the 1st century that was discovered in 1986 in the shallow waters of the Sea of Galilee.

Being out on the water in our own boat was inspirational! We enjoyed singing along to a few worship songs. The storm from the Gospels (Mark 4, Mathew 14) were shared by Pastor Mark. Jesus cares for us, especially when we encounter the “storms” of life. Sailing back to the dock, we returned to the shoreline, and walked back to our hotel rooms.  A number of us went swimming in the lake prior to dinner. It was a great day of focusing upon Jesus!

Day 6 – Thursday, October 15: Beth Shean, Shiloh, Jericho, Judean Desert, Ein Bokek, Dead Sea

We checked out of our hotel in Tiberias today. It’s been a great two full days and three nights here in the north end of the country. Following breakfast, we loaded the bus at 7:20 and departed at about 7:30. We read portions of Matthew 5-7 as we departed. Our final destination for the day would be the southern end of the Dead Sea (Ein Bokek). The weather was about the same as the last few days, with hazy sunshine and highs around 85 again (a little cooler at Shiloh). 🙂

Beth Shean

We drove south out of Tiberias and continued through the Jordan Valley about 20 miles to Beth Shean, the only city of the Decapolis on the west side of the Jordan. Beth Shean is a massive archaeological site, primarily Roman. Here we saw the Roman bathhouse, the colonnaded street, and public latrines, and the impressive theater. Most in the group climbed about 200 steps (in total) to the Old Testament site where Saul’s body was hung on the walls of the town square (1 Samuel 31, 1 Chronicles 10). The view from on top of the Roman city below was amazing! Even though it was a bit hazy, this site was overwhelmingly impressive!

Shiloh

Next, we drove into the Hill Country of Ephraim to Shiloh. On the way, we drove through the Desert and Hill Country of Samaria. 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

The next part of the drive from Shiloh was again unique. We drove past Ai (Joshua 7-8) and Mishmash (1 Samuel 13-14) on our way through the Parat Desert (Jeremiah 13). This is in the heart of the Judean Desert. We finally arrived at Jericho at the southern end of the Jordan Valley and enjoyed maqluba, an Arab dish of chicken and rice cooked upside-down. The salads were also wonderful! We then climbed the site of ancient Jericho (called Tel es-Sultan). We first looked east across the Jordan to recall a few biblical connections (e.g. Moses, Mt. Nebo, Dt. 31; Joshua crossing the river (Joshua 3), Elijah & Elisha (2 Kings 2), and Jesus’ baptism (Matthew 3). We then saw an old stone tower that predates even Abraham and a small portion of the city wall on the southern end. Mud-bricks and a burn level could also be seen in a few places. We recalled the Joshua 6 story how the city was defeated (and burned) by the Israelites. Praise God for the historicity of the Bible as it happened just as recorded and confirmed by archaeology!

Ein Bokek/Dead Sea

We ended the day by driving about an hour to Ein Bokek. This is an area of hotels clustered together along the shoreline of the south end of the Dead Sea. We made it to our hotel about 5:50, in time for us to check, to quickly change into our swimming suits, and then float in this unique body of water called the Dead Sea. It is about 33% salt and minerals, making it impossible to sink. Dinner followed after a good shower on our own at the hotel. It was another great day!

Day 7 – Friday, October 16: Masada, Ein Gedi, Qumran, Wilderness of Judah – Wadi Qelt,  Jerusalem, Western Wall

We left the hotel just shy of 8 a.m. this morning following breakfast. Today was “desert day” here in the Judean Desert. The weather was actually overcast and hazy (once again) most of the day (unique for the Dead Sea area), with breaks of sun throughout the day. We read Psalm 18:1-2 as we left the hotel, focusing on the word the Hebrew word metzada (“fortress”).

Masada

The site of Masada (metzada, in Hebrew) was our first site and only a 15 minute drive from our hotel in Ein Bokek. This was built in the early 30s BC as a palace-fortress by Herod the Great. We took the cable car to the top and began seeing the ruins from the 1st century. We saw huge cisterns, the western and northern palaces, the Roman Ramp, the synagogue, and the bathhouse. In 70 AD, this was the location where 967 Jews (according to Joseph’s) found refuge from the Romans following the destruction of the Temple. The holdout lasted about three years until all by five of these Jews (a few women and children) took their own lives. It is a story of bravery and courage! A good number in the group walked down the Snake Path. It took a little over 35 minutes.

Ein Gedi

From here we drove about 20 minutes north of Masada to get to Ein Gedi, one of only a few oasis here in the edge of the Judean Desert. We read from Song of Songs 1, 2 Chronicles 20 (the “Ascent of Ziz”) and 1 Samuel 24 (David hid from Saul here). Since the flash flood last spring causing the trail to be unsafe, we could only walk back to the first water falls. It was still beautiful to see this and the canyon beyond.

Qumran

Qumran is the most important site in Israel because of what was discovered here!  When we arrived, we walked directly to the cliff area of the desert to get a glimpse of Cave 6 (one of 12 caves in which fragments of ancient scrolls were discovered). We also saw the beginning of the aqueduct system that brought rain/flood water into the site.

It was here at Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found!  The discovery began in 1947, while the excavation took place through 1956. We walked through the limited ruins where a small community of Essenes lived (or retreated here from Jerusalem, as a new theory suggests). To date, about 930 scrolls and fragments of texts scrolls have been discovered. The scrolls/texts date primarily from the late 3rd century BC – 1st century AD. At the small archaeological site we saw cisterns, ritual baths (mikvot), and the scriptorium. We read from the Essenes’ “Nine Beatitudes” text (“Blessed are you …” it sounds very similar to Jesus’ “Nine Beatitudes.” In front of “Cave 4” (where the majority of texts were found), we read from “Psalm 151,” and Psalm 19. We celebrated the perseverance of God’s Word! We were invited to take joy in God’s Word.

Judean Desert/Wadi Qelt/St. George

On our way to Jerusalem, we enjoyed an extra and special stop overlooking the Judean Desert’s most-scenic area, Wadi Qelt! First, we got special permission (from Shlomo’s nephew) to drive to an amazing area overlooking the St. George Monastery built literally into the side of the cliff. This monastery was first built in the Byzantine Period and monks still live here today! Then we heard the voice of “Isaiah” (dressed in his garment and beard HA) as he shared the words given to him by God as recorded in Isaiah 40. Then Shlomo sang Psalm 23 for us, a fitting setting for this psalm. The experience here was special. Then most in the group walked down (and back up!) to the bottom of the canyon, a descent of about 500 feet. While the hike uphill was challenging, it was worth the effort.

Jerusalem/Western Wall

From here we continued our drive as we ascended to Jerusalem. We entered this magnificent city and saw our first glimpse of the Old City. We checked into our hotel and enjoyed a wonderful Shabbat dinner. Following dinner, almost everyone walked to the Western Wall, the most holy place for Jews today! We are looking forward to our first full day in Jerusalem tomorrow, Israel’s capital!

Day 8 – Saturday, October 17: Mt. of Olives, Garden of Gethsemane, Pool of Bethesda, St. Anne’s Church, Shepherd’s Fields, Herodium, Bethlehem

Today was our first full day in Jerusalem. This is the first of three full days here in Jerusalem’s ancient and modern capital. We began on the Mt. of Olives, and ended in Bethlehem. The weather was perfect today, with mostly sunny skies and highs in the low 70s. It is for sure cooler here in Jerusalem! We read from Psalm 122 (in English and Hebrew) as we began at 7:30.

Mt. of Olives/Gethsemane

From our hotel we drove around the northern end of the Old City to the Mt. of Olives. 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 chorus together. Here we celebrated Christ’s kingship as we remembered Luke 19 (Palm Sunday), Acts 1 (Christ’s ascension), and Zechariah 14 (about the return of Christ). Continuing down the slope and then up to a private garden where we considered the passion of Jesus in Gethsemane (Luke 22). From here we walked down to the Church of All Nations(the traditionalGarden of Gethsemane) where we saw olive trees hundreds of years old!

Shepherds’ Fields

From the Mt. of Olives we drove towards Bethlehem. To the east of Bethlehem is Beit Sahour. Following a delightful lunch here, we walked across the street into the “Shepherds’ Fields.” We recalled the brith narrative from Luke 2 as we celebrated that it was “just at the right time that God sent His Son” (Galatians 4:4). The shepherds were probably tending their sheep at Migdal Eder (between Bethlehem and Jerusalem, Micah 4) before the angelic host informed them of the birth of Jesus as prophesied (Micah 5). We enjoyed singing a few Christmas carols both in the cave as well as in the Chapel of the Shepherds.

Herodium

From here we drove a few miles further to the southeast toHerodium. This was a palace-fortress built by Herod the Great. He was also buried in 4 BC (although other biblical scholarship suggests he died in 1 BC. This means that Jesus may not have been born in 5 BC, but rather oneither September 11, 2 BC or September 20-21, 3 BC).

The site of Herodium is impressive, with many new renovations and displays. Inside the well-preserved official’s chamber (i.e. reception hall) we saw a wonderful presentation. Then most in the group walked up 150 steps through the royal arches to the top where we saw the bathhouse, synagogue, impressive frescoes, and a great view of Jerusalem from the highest of the four towers. We left the site by walked down through the cistern system.

Bethlehem

We ended the day by driving intoBethlehem where we visited an olive wood factory and story. These olive wood products were impressively made. The store is owned by a Christian family. The population today is only about 15-20% Christian vs. Muslim. It was the other way around 30 years ago!

We returned back to the hotel to enjoy dinner together before another optional walk, this time to Ben Yehuda Street in west Jerusalem. It was a great first day here in Jerusalem!

Day 9 – Sunday, October 18: Yad Vashem, Shephelah (Gezer, Beth Shemesh, Azekah), Har Gilo

Today we spent the morning in Jerusalem, while in the afternoon we drove to the Shephelah (lowlands) of Judah to visit three Old Testament sites. The weather was once again perfect, with sun and temps in the low 70s. We read from Psalm 137 ( a somber plasma about remembering Jerusalem!) as we left the hotel at 7:30 once again.

Yad Vashem

We departed the hotel and drove to West Jerusalem, specifically to Israel’s Holocaust Museum & Memorial. It is called Yad Vashem, named after a verse in Isaiah 56 that mentions the “memorial and a name.” Before the museum opened, we gathered among the “Avenue of the Righteous.” This “avenue is actually includes 1000s of trees dedicated to righteous gentiles who saved Jews during WW II. This incudes trees dedicated to people like Oscar Schindler and Corrie ten Boom.  Shlomo introduced to us some of the history of the Holocaust. He also shared his personal story about his family during this tragic event. He lost 12 family members in Vilna, Poland.

It was also a somber experience walking through the Children’s Memorial before walking through the main museum on our own, We were reminded of the horrors and atrocities of the Holocaust and the loss of six million Jews. We left the museum around 11 a.m.

Tel Gezer

Since the Israel Museum was closed today, we directly drove west into the Shephelah (lowlands) of Judah. Our first stop was Tel Gezer. This off-the-beaten-path site located along the Aijalon Valley was both a Canaanite and Israelite city, full of walls, towers, and gates. We saw the replica of the “Gezer Calendar.” We also recalled Solomon’s reference to the “seasons of life” from Ecclesiastes 3. From the observation mound we saw the Aijalon Valley mentioned in Joshua 10. Among the Middle Bronze ruins most of us used the steel stairway to see the water system (175 steps down). This water system was originally used by Canaanites (dating to around 1600 BC). 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. Further west down the valley was the Philistine city of Timnah where Samson’s first wife was from (only 4 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! We also referred to the story of 2 Kings 14 about Amaziah and Jehoash battling here.

Tel Azekah

Continuing south, we climbed the site of Azekah. On the drive to the top, we could see biblical Gath (the hometown of Goliath) to the west only about 5-6 miles away. This ancient city that has been excavated in recent years is located along the Elah Valley. Azekah is mentioned in the story of 1 Samuel 17 (the Philistines camped on the ride between Azekah and Socoh further east. It was in the narrow part of the valley (“gai”) where David battled Goliath. David faced the battle with this giant in the confidence of the Lord!

Har Gilo

As we began our drive back towards Jerusalem, we past Socoh and the part of the narrow valley where the battle actually took place. We also made a special stop to Har Gilo, Shlomo’s community. It was fun to see where he and his wife live. The view of greater Jerusalem was amazing from there too!

From here we returned to our hotel in Jerusalem where we enjoyed another great dinner and a free evening.  We have one more full day of the Israel portion of the tour here in Jerusalem!

Day 10 – Monday, October 19: Holy Sepulcher Church, Garden Tomb, City of David, Hezekiah’s Tunnel, Southern Wall Excavations, Western Wall, Israel Museum

Today was our last full day of the Israel portion of the trip. It was another beautiful partly sunny day, with highs in the low 70s. We enjoyed a visit to the Holy Sepulcher Church in the Old City and a time of worship & Communion at the Garden tomb to begin the day. This was followed by a visit to the City of David and the Israel Museum in the afternoon. We left the hotel at 7:30, reading Psalm 48 as we departed the hotel.

Holy Sepulcher Church

We drove directly to the Jaffa Gate where we entered the Old City to walk to the Holy Sepulcher Church. Built in 325 AD, this is the traditional location for the death and burial place of Jesus. It very well could be that Hadrian, the 2nd century AD Roman emperor “tipped us off” where he thought the tomb of Jesus was! The archaeological and historical records strongly favors this site over the Garden Tomb (not a 2nd Temple Tomb but rather a classic Iron Age tomb). While the Ediculae (enclosing the suggested tomb of Jesus) was not open, we walked down to the lower sections of the church. 

Garden Tomb

From here we walked through the Christian and Muslim Quarters to there Damascus Gate. We exited the Old City here, walking another few hundred yards north to the Garden Tomb. Located on the north side of the Old City, this is an alternative (“Protestant”) location found in the late 1800s for the crucifixion and burial site of Jesus. We saw the suggested rocky scarp (Golgotha) where Jesus was crucified, followed by the proposed tomb. A special time of worship and Communion followed. We worship the Person, not the place. What a great place to consider the redemptive purpose of Jesus’ coming!

City of David

Next, we loaded back on the bus and drove down around the Old City to the City of David. The City of David is located south of (and outside) the Old City today. We first got a great view of the area from the observation tower before we walked down through the excavations of Area G (where Dr. John dug for a month in 1982) and Warren’s Shaft. At the Gihon Spring is where most in the group accessed the entrance to Hezekiah’s Tunnel, a 1,710-foot tunnel chiseled in 701 BC. We walked in water through this amazing discovery mentioned in 2 Kings 20, 2 Chronicles 32, and Isaiah 8:6. Others walked through the “dry” Canaanite tunnel. Both groups converged at the Pool of Siloam where we recalled the John 9 story (the longest of the miracle narratives).

Pilgrim Road

From this southern end of the City of David is where we accessed the Pilgrim Road. This is a stone pavement that dates to 30 AD (perhaps even financed by Pilate!). We slowly walked up this ancient road to the SW corner of the Temple. This entire walk made us feel like we were literally walking in the footsteps of Jesus!  Here at this corner of the Temple was the most likely location for Jesus’ temptation (i.e. pinnacle). We also saw massive stones and what is left of a right-angle gate (called today Robinson’s Arch, discovered in 1830).

Southern Excavations

Next, we walked to the Southern Excavations of the Temple. While sitting on the actual steps leading into the Temple, we recalled the many times Jesus and the disciples (and Paul) used these steps! Again, this was humbling! Whereas the Temple was a magnificent building (Mark 13:1-2), we are to be the Temple (1 Corinthians 3)!

Israel Museum

From here we drove to the area of the Knesset, Israel’s parliamentary building. Across the street is the Israel Museum. Here we saw three things. First, a 1:50 scale model of 2nd Temple Jerusalem. The model gives us a good idea of what Jerusalem looked liked during the time of Jesus. Next, we briefly walked through the Shrine of the Book where some of the Dead Sea Scrolls are on display. Lastly, we saw the highlights within the archaeological wing of the museum. Among the many things we saw, this included such artifacts like the Arad “Holy of Holies,” the Dan and Pilate Inscriptions, Lachish Letter #4, the Ketaf Hinnom inscription (Numbers 6), Herod’s sarcophagus, the “Temple Warning” inscription, and of course the “pie plate” from the 2nd century AD. 🙂

We returned to the hotel in time to pack and ready ourselves for either our flight home tomorrow or (for 12 of us) our flight to Athens (via Rome). We then enjoyed our “farewell dinner.” It was a time to reflect upon the trip and  thank God for a wonderful journey of faith together!

“Hidden Gate” (Optional)

We returned to the hotel from here. Most in the group called it a day, while seven of us walked to the Jaffa Gate area. We walked to the southern area of the western side of the Old City to see what is called the “Hidden Gate.” This may have been the “lithostrotos” (“stone pavement”) upon which Jesus stood when Pilate presented Him to the religious of Jerusalem who wanted Jesus crucified. Some of the original steps leading up to this gate (that was there 2000 years ago) can be seen today.

Back at the hotel we enjoyed our “Farewell Dinner” at 6 p.m. It was a good time of sharing around the table some of our “highlight” moments of the trip. Fifteen of us fly out early tomorrow morning (5:15 a.m.) for Rome en route to Athens for our optional 4-day Greece extension. Six others have their flight home either tonight or tomorrow morning.

It was a great trip with a wonderful group of friends!

Day 11 – Tuesday, October 20: Fly to Athens, Mar’s Hill, Acropolis, Parthenon, City Tour

For 15 of us going to Athens , the day started early, with a departure time of 1:30 a.m. from the hotel. Others in the group flew directly back to the U.S. later this morning. When we arrived in Athens, the weather in sunny and mild, with temps in the 70s. Beautiful!

Athens

After going through Rome (a change in the original flight schedule), we arrived at about 11:40 a.m. in Athens. We were greeted by Tasos, our Expedition agent, and our driver, Alexander. We boarded the bus and drove to the area of the Acropolis where we met Aliki. We first enjoyed a gyro for lunch before visiting Mar’s Hill. Unfortunately, Aliki, who suffered a knee injury last week, is only able to guide us today here in Athens. However, Sophia (a good friend and colleague of Aliki and a tour guide used by John before several times) is available for the next two days. We were in good hands!

Rock of Aeropagus/Mars Hill

We first visited the Rock of Aeropagus (Mars Hill). This is where Paul boldly spoke of his faith and about the resurrection to the “high court” of the day. This was not simply an invitation to Paul to talk “philosophy” with the leaders of Athens. Rather, Paul was literally “seized” / “dragged” (Greek: epilambano) to appear before this judicial court, who centuries before sentenced Socrates to death (in 399 BC) for teaching something new to young people. With the Acropolis above us and the agora (marketplace), Stoa, and other temples below us, we could almost hear Paul’s words as he spoke His word in reference to the “Unknown God” of Athens. We read his words shared precisely at this location from Acts 17 where Paul shared about the “resurrection of Christ” (for sure a new teaching for these Athenians). As a result of Paul’s bold sharing and the working of the Holy Spirit, Dionysius and Damaris and “a number of others” (v.34) who listened to Paul came to faith in Christ!

Acropolis

Next, we climbed to the top of the Acropolis, a wonderful archaeological and ancient cultural highlight of Athens! We walked slowly up the steps of the Propylaea (gateway/entrance) to the top. Here once stood a 30 foot bronze statue of Athena. On top of the Acropolis is the Erechtheion. This was a most important temple dedicated to Athena, Poseidon and Erechtos.

However, the Parthenon is the most identifiable temple-structure on top. It was built with 17 pillars on the long side and 8 on the short side (based on the classic ratio). The columns are of the Doric order. It was finished in 10 years (447-438 BC). Another 5-6 years was spent in decoration. In 432 BC it was finally completed. The architects were the best Greece could offer. Phidias was one of the supervisors. 4000 people worked on the Parthenon. It was not built by slaves but rather the best of Greeks. The Athena statue stood inside the temple. It was 40 feet tall made of ivory and bronze. 5000 pieces of marble from there Parthenon taken in early 19th century by Englishmen. This collection is now displayed in the British museum.

City Bus Tour of Athens

Finally to complete the afternoon, we boarded the bus for a brief city tour of Athens. We saw The Temple of Zeus, the Arch of Hadrian, the Olympic Stadium (restored and used in the 1896 Olympics), and Constitution Square. We also saw impressive neo-classical buildings of the 19th century (e.g. Science & Art, Education, and National Library buildings).

It’s exciting to be here in Greece and we look forward to seeing some of the country to the north of Athens tomorrow on our drive north to the classic site of Delphi.

Day 12 – Wednesday, October 21: Delphi, Athens, Lycabetus 

Today was our first full day in Greece and another beautiful day here in Greece, with sunny skies and temps around 80. A few puffy clouds showed up this afternoon in the Parnassos mountains in the area of Delphi. We read from Acts 16 about Paul in Philippi (“Pythia” is mentioned) as we left the hotel at 7:30 a.m. It was very nice to meet Sophia, our guide for the next two days!

Delphi

Once we got out of Athens, the drive to Delphi was scenic, with wide open country. We turned off the national highway to head towards the high Parnassos Mountain range. After a short rest stop, we arrived in Delphi to see the archaeological site and museum.

We first walked to the Museum, seeing the area of the gymnasium and Tholos of Athena far below as well walked. In the Museum, we started with the Gallio Inscription. It dates to 52 AD, precisely when Paul was in Corinth. This was written by Claudius who mentions “my friend Gallio the proconsul of Achaia.” He was also the brother of Seneca. Luke mentions him as the one who addressed Paul from the Bema in Corinth (Acts 18:14-16). We were all impressive artifacts are displayed here, including the famous bronze charioteer (dating to 476 BC).

Next, we visited the archaeological site itself. We ascended through the Agora (marketplace) and up past the Treasury of Athena to the famous Temple of Apollo. Higher up the site was the theater and an intact well-preserved stadium. Paul captured the culture by exhorting Christ followers to “run the race well…” (1  Corinthians 9). The Pythian Games were held here in Delphi every four years in honor of Apollo.

Delphi was known in this classical period of Greece as the place of oracles. The women who shared oracles were call Pythia. Acts 16:16 uses the same word. Paul and Silas preached that accepting Christ as spoken in the very Word (e.g. oracle) of God and trusting in God’s Spirit is what gives purpose and direction for our lives! God also accepts us as as redeemed by Christ by virtue of His sacrifice. We are encouraged to live as a “living sacrifice to God, holy and acceptable to God (Romans 12:1-2).

Lunch/Ride to Athens/Mt. Lycabetus

Just outside the town of Delphi we visited a wonderful Greek restaurant for a late lunch. Many had wild boar, pork or chicken kabab, Greek salad, or Moussaka. We drove back to Athens the same way. After dinner, most in the group ventured up to the top of Mt. Lycabetus. What a stunning view of the city of Athens (5.5 million people)!

Day 13 – Thursday, October 22: Corinth, Mycenae, Cenchreae, Athens

Today we drove south to the Peloponnese of Greece. The weather started overcast and a bit cooler. But sunny skies returned by mid-morning! We read from 2 Corinthians 4 & 11 as we left the hotel at 7:30 a.m.

Corinthian Canal

After breakfast at the hotel restaurant, we departed about 7:30 a.m. We drove south to the Peloponnese of Greece. First we stopped at the famous Corinthian Canel. It was built over a 11 year span (1882-1893) and is about 4 miles long, 85 feet wide, 300 feet deep, with the water level around 26 feet. No one bunt-jumped! (HA)

Ancient Corinth

We then drove another 15 minutes to the ancient site of ancient Corinth. This huge city (400 – 500,000 at its peak perhaps) was the once glorious city near the Isthmus where Paul met Aquila and Priscilla and spent a year and a half preaching the Word of God.

We first walked down to the area of the theater where we saw the Erastus Inscription (he donated his own money for the public works, see Romans 16:23). Next, among the ruins we saw the Temple of Apollo (one of 14 total pagan temples), the forum (agora in Greek), and the bema (judgement seat). During Paul’s stay here during his 2nd mission journey, he wrote letters to the Thessalonica church. During his brief stay here at the end of his 3rd mission journey, he wrote Romans. It was delivered by Phoebe (Romans 16). We read from Acts 18 about Gallio dismissing the case brought against Paul. Before leaving Corinth we drove to the Acropolis “Acrocorinth”) for a peak of where the Temple of Aphrodite was and a spectacular view of the plain of Corinth below. Most in the group hiked up to a wonderful viewpoint, while nine also made it to the highest peak. We came back from the hike and enjoyed a wonderful lunch.

Mycenae

From here we drove to Mycenae. We first made a stop at the “Bee Hive” tomb of King Agamemnon (or the Treasury of Atreus). We enjoyed singing in the tomb. We even sang “Silent Night” and a group from Spain joined us! At the archaeological site, much of what we saw dates from 1,350 – 1,200 BC. At the site we saw the famous Lion’s Gate (1,250 BC), the shaft tombs (where over 13 pounds of gold was found in the 1870s excavations), the palace area, and the cistern. Most in the group made a loop at the top. The view was stunning!

Cenchreae

Leaving Mycenae and on our way back to Athens, we made a brief stop at Cenchreae (Acts 18). This is the port where Paul sailed to Ephesus at the end of his 2nd missionary journey. Aquila and Priscilla were with Paul. We considered Paul’s life “own the road” amidst his many mission journeys.

Upon returning to the hotel, we once again enjoyed dinner. Following dinner, some in the group enjoy da longer walk to Constitution Square to see the hourly changing of the guard at the “Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.” It was a 3-mile walk round-trip.

Day 14 – Friday, October 23: Day Cruise to Hydra, Poros, Aegina

Our last day here in Greece was a fun one! The weather was cool in the morning but sunny during the day, with highs in the upper 70s. Perfect for cruising on a small ferry ship on the Aegean Sea! The day started with a beautiful sunrise and closed with a spectacular sunset! We read from Philippians 2 and Colossians 1 as we started the day!

Hydra, Poros, Aegina

Following breakfast we boarded the bus and drove to Piraeus, Athen’s harbor (Paul probably sailed into this area from the north). Our agent Costas accompanied us on to the small ferry ship. Throughout the day we visited three islands, Hydra, Poros, and Aegina. These destinations are the classic Greek islands with spectacular beauty. We got off at each of these quaint ports and explored on our own. We experienced a close-up taste of Greek culture, food, and shopping.

About 8:45 p.m. we returned to our hotel in Athens for dinner (although most ate on the island of Aegina) packing preparations for tomorrow’s flights. We all fly home tomorrow on various flights.

It was a great trip with a wonderful group of new friends God brought together!

Day 15 – Saturday, October 24: Flight Home