Day Five: Cost of the Calling

Today we journeyed through the Upper Galilee and into the Golan Heights, pressing northward all the way to Israel’s border. Along the way, we stepped back into the first century by baking bread, smashing grapes, crushing olives. These simple practices connected us to the world of Scripture, reminding us that God’s Word was lived first in the rhythms of ordinary life.

From there, we entered one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Israel, Tel Dan. Nestled against the northern border, this place brings the pages of Scripture into sharp relief. As the twelve tribes split (ten became the northern kingdom known as Israel), their first king, Jeroboam, established two shrines. One at Bethel and one here at Dan. He placed a golden calf and declared: “Here are your gods, Israel, who brought you up out of Egypt” (1 Kings 12:28).

Standing on the high place, we saw where the altar once stood. Archaeologists uncovered animal bones, evidence of the priests’ meals, proof of Israel’s downward spiral into idolatry. A replica altar now stands as a sobering reminder of how quickly God’s people can compromise.

Tel Dan also gave us one of the most important archaeological discoveries in modern times. In 1993 and 1994, fragments of the Tel Dan Stele were unearthed here, inscribed with the words “House of David.” This ninth-century BC Aramean victory monument is the earliest known extra-biblical reference to King David, substantiating the historicity of Scripture and affirming the biblical record. Stones cry out what some have tried to deny: David was real, and God’s story holds.

We then continued to Caesarea Philippi, where towering rock cliffs form the backdrop to ancient pagan worship. In the first century, this site was dedicated to the god Pan. A stream once flowed from a cave in the rock, believed by pagans to be an entrance to the underworld, a “gate of Hades.” Against this backdrop, Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do you say I am?” and then declared: “On this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” (Matthew 16:18).

These words take on deeper meaning when we realize their setting. Jesus wasn’t pointing to a safe synagogue, but to a place of darkness, idolatry, and fear. And in 2020, when the world was shut down during COVID, archaeologists excavating in front of that very cave discovered the remains of a church. Indeed, a church was built on that rock. Christ’s promise stands.

But more than stones, He is building His church through us. We are His people, called to bear His light in the world as it is today, dark, confused, and in need of hope. Our calling is clear. And our calling comes with a cost.

Following Jesus was never promised to be easy. Compromise and comfort will always entice. But discipleship demands surrender, courage, and faithfulness. One day we will hear: “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Until then, we take up our cross and follow Him, trusting that the One who promised is faithful.

Prayer

Jesus, You are the Christ, the Son of the living God. Give us courage to follow You even when it costs us. Guard us from compromise, anchor us in truth, and build Your church in and through us. May we be faithful to the call You’ve given in this time, in this place, among these people. Amen.

“The church exists by mission as fire exists by burning.” – Emil Brunner