Day 01 - Plains of Moab: Mount Nebo, Madaba, Mosaic Shop

On our first day in Jordan, we took a short walk to St George’s Cathedral. Here we learned about a mosaic map of the region that reflected both Old and New Testament events. The map, which is several centuries old, is now only 30% intact. The church was built upon this site for the purpose of preserving what is left.

We enjoyed an authentic Jordanian meal provided by a gracious couple at their family restaurant. The main course, Mmmm, a chicken and rice dish cooked with local spices did not disappoint. We also enjoyed creamy hummus and an assortment of other regional appetizers.

Next, we took a short drive to Mount Nebo, where the Lord showed Moses the Promised Land before he died. It was very hazy as we looked over the Jordan Valley and down to the Dead Sea, which we could see. The haze hid Jerusalem from us, however. I wondered how the land may have looked different as Moses looked at the land of God’s promise. I wondered what were his thoughts, who may have been with him, what they talked about, and how long he/they lingered there just taking it all in.

As we left Mt Nebo, we stopped at a mosaic shop, where we learned about the process of making a stone mosaic, similar to the map in St George’s cathedral, and to the mosaic art on its walls.

Now, we are on a 3 hour nap drive through the desert toward Petra. We are all looking forward to this adventure tomorrow!