Day 08 - Every Day is a New Surprise…

The penultimate day in Ha’ Aretz (The Land) was exciting, but also a little bit different. That is one of the best things about this trip! Every day is a new surprise.

We began our day at the City of David. We travelled down and down in tunnel after tunnel seeing the ruins and excavations of a still developing site. One of the many amazing things here in Israel is that they are constantly unearthing history, whether by accident or on purpose. There is still so much more to learn about this area.

The climax of this site was Hezekiah’s tunnel—a half-mile long tunnel cut through the bedrock to save Jerusalem during a time of war. It was amazing to walk through, and try to picture the workmen chiseling such an impressive feat! That deposited us at the pool of Siloam—which, as of two weeks ago, saw a massive expansion of this remarkable site, which they hope to complete soon.

During lunch we had the opportunity to meet a local jeweler who does handmade custom jewelry. So cool!

We next went to the Israel Museum. This expansive museum is far too much to take in on one day, so we focused in on two features: the scale model of the ancient city of Jerusalem, and the Shrine of the Book—where the Dead Sea scrolls are kept. The model of Jerusalem was an incredible overview of what the city would have looked like in Jesus’ day. It had to be some 60 yards long and perhaps 40 yards wide. It was impressive. It truly helped put in perspective all the amazing things we had seen up till today!

From there we visited Yad Vashem, the holocaust Museum. You can’t help but be devastated by such a place and the images and memories that it holds. The atrocities that were perpetrated during that time to God’s chosen people are absolutely unspeakable. And yet the joy and hope that the people have survived that journey with is awe-inspiring. It was truly a moving experience.

It was another amazing day. Our guide, Dan, has so expertly weaved together a story that helps Israel come alive for each of us. We can’t wait for our final and climactic day tomorrow!

Please continue to pray and follow our updates!

Sammy & Jeff