Who do you say I am?

Gamla
Day 5 started at Gamla in the Golan Heights. We walked through the treacherous hot terrain to get to the ancient site of Gamla. This was a place where Zealots resided. Zealots were people who wanted to disrupt the Pax Romana and had zeal for the Torah. So much so, that they took a knife to those who were either Roman soldiers or secular Jews, who did not keep the law. Because the Zealots were pushing back against Rome, the Roman military sought to wipe them out. Rome successfully overtook the Zealots after a long stand off. Simply, because one of the Zealots that lived on the outer wall of Gamla failed to do his part to protect the city. The take away from Gamla for us becomes, “do we do our part?”
We walked to the breach in the wall that allowed Roman soldiers to go in. While we were there we reflected on the thought of being faithful to do our part for those around us and for the glory of God.

Caesarea Philippi
Our next stop was located in Northern Israel at Caesarea Philippi. We were about 120 miles from Jerusalem walking in an area that was evidently occupied by Romans. We saw Roman bridges, aqueducts, and columns along the way proving that there was a heavy Roman presence.

As we hiked, we were alongside cool refreshing water coming from Mount Hermon. After walking through the desert, the coolness in air from the cold water felt great. We continued to hike for a bit, until we finally made it to the heart of Caesarea Philippi. Located there was the Temple of Pan and spas for Roman soldiers, as well as anyone who desires to worship and relax.

This was the place that Jesus took his disciples to ask them the question of “who do you say I am?” As well as, tell them “upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of Hell will not prevail against it.” It was a surreal moment for all of us to be in the place Jesus made that famous statement , which changed the world forever.

Our last stop was the Mt. of Beatitudes, which is famously known as the place Jesus preached the “Sermon on the Mount.” What better thing to do on the mount than to read the “Sermon on the Mount?” That is just what we did. It was a very powerful moment to sit in the place Jesus would have taught and unpack His words. It was the perfect way to end the day. Jesus be glorified!