Day 02 - Negev: Masada, Bedouin Hospitality, Dead Sea

Masada, Camels & the Dead Sea - The Highs & Lows of Day Two

Our day began with breathtaking views at the very top of Masada and ended with floating in the lowest spot in Israel, actually in the entire world, the Dead Sea.

The History of Masada 

Masada means stronghold and we learned why this fortress, built by Herod the Great in 30 BC, lost for many years as the Jewish people were scattered, and finally taken back when Israel became a nation again in 1948,  is more than the most visited archaeological site in Israel, but a symbol of courage, heroism and freedom! 

We also made a little history of our own today as Paul Siewert became the oldest person that our tour guide has seen make the long, steep trek down from Masada (we took the cable car up). Happy Birthday to Paul, who is 93 years young today!

Camels, Hospitality & the Good Shepherd

After camel rides, we tried our hand at shepherding. We quickly learned what it takes not to be a good shepherd! As our guide opened our physical eyes to the definition of a good shepherd, he help open our spiritual eyes to Psalm 123.. I am more thankful than ever that the Lord is my Shepherd. 

Biblical hospitality was modeled for us as we sat in a circle on the floor of a tent and ate delicious bread cooked over the fire for us while reading about Abraham’s hospitality in Genesis 18:6. We also talked about the definition of authentic hospitality in I Peter 4:9. We are going to keep the hospitality going when we gather again in the US to drink the coffee that Jessica Smith ground for us by hand today!

The Dead Sea

The lowest physical point of our day was at the Dead Sea, but it was one of the highest points for me. I am fascinated by this beautiful body of water that is a color wheel of blues with white salt beaches. Nothing like I expected! Floating in the salty waters was incredible and we got some priceless pics of those that chose the full mud experience. I am humbled by the beauty of His creation in Israel and in awe of the goodness of our God.

-Cheri Siewert