The Temple Mount

As we entered into the Temple Mount, we learned that this area is run by Muslims and that though there are so many reasons to talk about this location in regards to Christianity, we had to be hush-hush about it. Learning that this would have been the place where Abraham brought Isaac to sacrifice him, we also learned that the Israelites returned here from Babylon, and then soon became a place where Herod the Great would come and construct into yet another empire for himself. The following day, we were able to return to this place and learn about Jesus teaching in this area. While hearing the teaching, we heard what they estimate to be about 40,000 Muslims praying on their day of rest (Friday). It was truly an interesting experience.

After we left the Temple Mount, we went to a museum where we saw a replica of Jerusalem just before the destruction in 70 AD. It was very impressive! Jonathan was able to walk us through the museum and show us various artifacts that have been saved throughout the different time periods. We saw everything from scrolls that have been saved to different weapons and pottery used throughout the ages.

From there, we crossed over into Palestinian territory, into Bethlehem. We were able to do some shopping in a store that sold many pieces made out of olive wood, and then were taken to the place of Jesus’ birth. Queen Helena built a church over and around his place of birth in the 300’s. The church was absolutely beautiful and as we fought our way through the crowds, we were able to spend a few minutes in his place of birth. Interestingly enough, his place of birth looked a lot more like a cave than what we have learned a “stable” to be. The stable would have been a place that animals were kept, but it was definitely in a cutout of cave made out of limestone. That was definitely something that changed the details of the narrative a little for many of us. Of course, it was an amazing experience!

Thursday evening we were invited to go to what is called “Parent Circle.” We heard two individuals speak about the affects of the fight between Israelis and Palestinians that has been going on for decades now. Hearing each speak about their own stories of losing family members in this war, it was heartbreaking. However, Parent Circle is a group that was made for individuals who have experienced loss of family in this fight. We learned about their goal to unite as Israelis and Palestinians in the effort to speak out about the fight, and what they’ve learned from each other when in proximity with one another. Their main goal is to speak out and raise awareness so that this fight doesn’t continue to have the same impact on many of them in the future as it has up until this point.

As always, it was a packed day, but it was an amazing day!