Day 07 - Gods Plan at Work: Beth Shean, Megiddo, Mt. Carmel, Caesarea Maritima

This morning we left our sea-side stay and made our way to several sites surrounding the significant trade route, Jezreel Valley. Our first stop was the Roman city of Bet-She'an. We traveled through one of the city gates and learned about the significance and difficult process of excavating tels, which can contain layered history of dozens of civilizations. Bet-She'an's location within the valley testified to the Roman Empire's confidence and military dominance. One of the most significant archeological finds here was a coin dating to 749 AD, which was found on lone remains of a thief killed while looting the destroyed city. We reflected on the significance of this area, in that Jonathan and Saul were killed in battle here.

Our second stop was to Megiddo, a tel containing an incredible 30 layers of distinct civilizations that have been cut away and studied. This was a highly contested and valued historical city due to its position of influence in the trade route from the Mediterranean Sea to Mesapotamia. This is the location of Armageddon from Revelation, and an incredible testament to ancient ingenuity is the water system created here. Containing both a horizontal and vertical channel which raised water to accessible points based on fluctuations in the water table level, the system also hid access from enemies outside the walls. Our discussion at this site covered the structure of ancient city gates and how people would have met prominent figures of authority within the spaces of the gate.

Our third stop was the monestary on top of the Mount Carmel range. From this panoramic view, the Mediterranean Sea and mountains of Jordan can be seen, showing the entire width of Israel in one single viewpoint. Together we read the story of Elijah contesting the prophets of Baal. Somewhere on this mountain range would have been where God called down undeniable and powerful fire, compelling all witnesses to declare Him the one, true God. Reading this story reminded us to be bold in our defense of the Lord, to not be divided in our alliances, and to allow His authority and power into our lives.

Our fourth and final stop took us to the city of Caesarea on the coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. Kind Herod built this city, and one impressive achievement includes his tenacious effort and success in building a port in deep water. Remains of Herod's theater display an impressive meeting place, which likely was the location in Caesarea where Paul gave his defense to King Agrippa before being sent to Caesar in Rome. In addition to this significance, a stone inscription has been found within the city bearing the name of Pontious Pilate. Our talk while sitting on the stone steps in Caesar's theater reminded us of Paul's fearless determination to declare Jesus as Messiah even through intensive and extensive trials.

After another hot day hiking through many sites surrounding the Jezreel Valley, we were able to dip our toes in the Mediterranean Sea and enjoy beautiful views of the evening sun and vibrant coastal activity for a few special minutes before we made our trip toward the city of Jerusalem.