Day 04 - Hot Air Balloon Ride, Hierapolis, Colossae, Laodicea

Today was a full day! Before diving into the sites, though, I have to mention the hot air balloon ride. At around 5 a.m. the whole group rode in hot air balloons and got to experience the beautiful scenery and sunrise, while surrounded by ancient cities of scripture. This followed with sites at three cities that seemed separate, but climaxed in a narrative that related them all. 

The first was the ancient city of Heirapolis. This was the city that people came for healing from the natural hot water known as the “healing waters.” Due to this, there was a huge Necropolis (graveyard) for people who came to be healed, but didn’t get what they hoped. Up above the graveyard, however, was a very special tomb and building. This was the Tomb and Martyrium (place to honor where someone was martyred) of Philip the Disciple. It was here among the Hot water, Hades cult worshipers, and those seeking healing that Philip was crucified. While tragic, the beauty of Philip’s story was his faithfulness to the end. God even used his impact, as it lasted 300 years later, when the people built his Martyrium.

Following Heirapolis was Colossae. In all honestly there was not much to see due to the site not being excavated. What lacked in ruins, however, made up for in experience. A small stream of Cold water from the mountain ran and we got to touch it before reading the letter Paul wrote to the Colossians. Here we imagined what it would be like to hear a letter of Paul encouraging believers in their faith. 

Lastly there was Laodicea. The city was large and seemed very wealthy. In fact, more was being unearthed every day. Its size and the self sufficiency, however, had led it astray. In Revelation 3, it is described as being Lukewarm. This was the same as their water supply that had a tendency to make people sick. Despite this lukewarm temperament, the city contained the most churches of all three. As these were likely built after Revelation was written, it painted a beautiful picture of what intentional care and the loving conviction of God can do. It transformed a city once described in scripture as lukewarm into a place where the gospel flourished. 

3 cities in one day is a lot, but every second, every moment, and every scene was worth it. Throughout the day we were encouraged to stand firm in what God calls us. We are to love those around us and live for God’s glory. Lastly, we must be wary of becoming comfortable and self sufficient in this life, because it keeps us from relying on God and trusting in His ultimate plan. After all, this world is not our home. This was Turkey: Day 4.

Joy
 

P.S. isn't it interesting that each city's trait begins with the same letter as its name?