Another jam packed, fun filled day in the Holy Land!

Here it's it again!

Today was our last day in the Galilee region. Last night several of us went out to the beach to watch the sunset, listen to the waves and enjoy the last views of the Sea of Galilee. After dinner we all met up for a bonfire and time of worship. A very fun way to end the day.

We began our day at Zippori. This first century town was being built around the time that Jesus and Joseph would have been local builders. While there is no proof, it is still a possibility that Jesus and Jospeh might have helped build this city. I may have sat in an ancient Roman theater that Jesus built-I still haven't wrapped my mind around that. We also got to see the remnants of an exquisite mosaic in the home of one of the towns wealthy citizens. The home itself is 10-15 times larger than the average home on the site and the mosaic further emphasizes the wealth of this family. In the bottom border there is a portrait of a lady now known as the Mona Lisa of Galilee. No matter where you are in the room her eyes follow you.

From Zippori we drove through Nazareth to a lookout know as Mount of Precipice. From this view we could see the modern city and we listened to Michael teach about Jesus early ministry in his hometown. It's safe to say that Jesus was not a hometown hero then. When he spoke in the synagogue he shook up their preconceived beliefs. He angered his townspeople so badly that they tried to throw him from a nearby precipice-perhaps the very same precipice we were sitting on. Michael challenged us to be aware or we will miss out if we aren't open to God changing our views and life.

Next we journeyed to the battlefield of Israel known as Megiddo. Countless battles have been fought to gain or maintain control of this key city. From Kings Saul, David and Solomon to Napoleon and Lord Allenby in World War I. Formerly known as Har Megiddo, it is from this war ravaged area that we get out word Armageddon. Michael taught about the tragic figure of King Solomon. When Solomon first ascended to the throne he was good and wise, but little by little he compromised. He kept turning the dimmer switch lower and lower until he life was dark and completely corrupt.

We ended our day at Caesarea by the Sea. In its day this was the largest harbor in the world and the capitol of Judea. This ode to Rome and its emperor was built by Herod and boasted a massive theater, hippodrome, and palace by the sea complete with a fresh water pool. It was from this place that Peter shared Christ with the centurion Cornelius, and in doing so opened up the gift of salvation to the world of the Gentiles. Michael reminded us that, like Peter, we are part of Gods force to go out into the world and share His gift with everyone.

With that charge in mind we closed our time in Galilee and departed for Jerusalem. I cannot believe our time in Israel is drawing to a close. I couldn't have imagined all that God has shown me so far and I cannot wait to see what He has yet to reveal!

Ingrid Ross