Day 07 - A Day of Surprises…

We got up early today to be at the Temple Mount before the crowds arrived…and it worked. It was smooth sailing all the way through. On top of the Temple Mount it was both eerie and exciting. There is a powerful sense of history, as well as excitement for the future, but also a bit of a darkness with the Muslim presence holding such a tight grip of control. Being in such a place is awesome, in the truest sense of the word. Knowing what God has done there—as well as what He will do, is humbling. We talked through the “Akedah”---the binding of Isaac, in Gen 22 and learned about the origin of this most sacred place—as well as why this piece of real estate is venerated by the 3 major world religions. We also discussed the future God has for this amazing spot.

Our next stop took us underground as we walked the Rabbinic tunnels—which run the length of the Western Wall. It was incredible to see the massive 620 ton stones (no, that wasn’t a typo) which make up the base of the wall!

Then we headed to Bethlehem. We toured the impressive Herodium, a man-made mountain and fortress built by Herod the Great. And we discussed the end of the career of this incredible builder, effective politician, and megalomaniac murderous villain in the Biblical narrative. Herod was a formidable figure in the history of Israel. But was also mightily flawed.

Next, we drove over to the hills where the shepherds would have been when they were the recipients of the greatest announcement of all time. To think that God announced the greatest birth in history to some of the lowliest people on earth. What a great reminder that the Gospel is not reserved for a select group of people on earth, but rather for the entire world to know of the hope we have through Christ.

Our trip to Bethlehem ended with a stop at Johnny’s gift shop. A Christian business owner in Bethlehem who does much to support the oppressed Christian minority in the Palestinian area. It was a blessing to support his business.

Please continue to pray and follow our updates!

Sammy & Jeff