Day 09 - Jerusalem: Davidic Temple Sifting Project, Israel Museum, Pool of Bethesda, Via Dolorosa, Ecce Homo, Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Farewell Dinner

On our final day touring together followed closely through Jesus' days on earth. We began on the Mount of Olives with a breathtaking view overlooking Jerusalem. Pastor Matt led us through three departures and arrivals significant to our faith. We won’t soon forget Jesus’ ascension in Acts 1, and His final return prophesied in Zechariah14, “On that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives.” 

Next, we broke into teams of four as we enthusiastically sifted through dirt and rocks from 167-70 AD at the City of David Sifting Project. We felt like real archeologists as we discovered bones, pottery, mosaics and even a few coins.

After boarding the bus once again, Meir expertly drove us through traffic on very narrow streets to the Garden of Gethsemane. Pastor Steve’s teaching on Jesus' intense loneliness as He cried out to the Father led into our own individual reflection time in that sacred area. In the quietness of the hillside we worshiped and shared communion together powerfully remembering Jesus' sacrifice for us.

A short drive to the inner city gates and we were off the bus again to continue our journey up the road to see The Lithostros built by Hadrian. We read that Pilot was a man of many questions wrestling with the position of power had over Jesus. We saw the stones and area he would have sat as he heard their accusations against Jesus from his judgment seat. We paused to reflect on the incomprehensible torture Jesus suffered prior to death and the magnitude of what he was about to endure. 

From here we continued our climb through the uneven stone streets on our journey towards Golgotha. Surrounded by merchants, foreign languages, Jews in special robes and Christians, we finally arrived at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. We were given time to explore and touch the rock where Jesus’s cross was placed and possibly the tomb where he was buried. The archeology, art, architecture, and songs of monks and priests chanting were a bit overwhelming. Each commemorated spot had ornate shrines and people from six catholic and orthodox denominations who all crowded around to see and honor Jesus. 

Finally, we “sharpened our elbows” and helped one another navigate the cobblestone streets to our restaurant. Over tasty hummus, salads and kabobs we expressed gratitude to God for sweet formative moments with Him, new friendships with one another, pastor Matt’s skillful leadership, Ronen’s knowledge and of course Meir’s talented driving. 

December 9-10

Our wake up call at 2:45 am Israel time came quickly. We’re now safely on our first flight to Turkey and excited to get home. We look forward to telling you about this special land and more importantly our amazing God