An amazing, learning packed, and joyous day in Israel

Today was an amazing, learning packed, and joyous day in Israel. We first went to Katzrin. It is a village that has been established to re-enact life, customs, and traditions of a first century village. We baked bread, visited housing, an olive press and a synagogue much like what Jesus and the disciples would have encountered almost 2,000 years ago. Maybe a highlight for most was that we were able to cook and eat our own individual flat bread baked over an open fire.

Then we drove to the top of a high mountain on the border of Syria and learned so much about the many wars raging all around Israel and the wars that Israel has won against amazing odds attributed to the intervention of the Lord.

Then we traveled further north to Caesarea Philippi. This place was called the Gates of Hell when Jesus brought his disciples here. He declared that the Gates of Hell will not prevail against the Church. Pastor Nate taught us that this was a statement that declared the power of the church and not a statement of a defensive posture. We were all so amazed to walk at a place where Jesus made such a bold and prophetic statement.

Then we topped off the evening with a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee where we were all touched deeply in our spirits as we contemplated Jesus calming of the storms on this very body of water. We prayed, we worshiped and even danced in the joy that the Lord gave us all.

What an amazing day. God is so good. I am overwhelmed by His love.

Steve Poetzl