Day 01 - Jerash

We woke up ready to explore the Hashemite Kingdom Of Jordan. We ate breakfast from the buffet consisting of all sorts of yummy choices from eggs to salad. I personally love the yogurt, honey and fresh bread. With full bellies we boarded the bus where we began our day with prayer and a pearl from Isaiah 9.

On the way to Jerash, we had a bonus stop by the Jabbock River. It was at the Jabbock ford where Jacob crossed over in anticipation of meeting with Esau. The story told in Genesis 22 tells us about Jacob tenaciously wrestling with a man, possibly the incarnate Christ, and not letting go until he was blessed. It was near the place where we stood that Jacob’s name was changed to Israel. Israel means "striving with God"; I ask myself, "How am I striving with God and how has He blessed me?" 

We explored the ancient city of Jerash. This Decapolis city is considered one of the largest and well preserved sites of Roman architecture outside of Italy, and its history goes back more than 6500 years. It was a city of beauty and majesty where at least 25,000 Gentiles lived when Jesus walked this earth. People all over the Decapolis sought Jesus as He healed and taught throughout the region. Their hearts yearned for more than the opulence of the city and the entertainment in the theatre. There is an innate desire for more that can only be satisfied through Christ, so they followed Him.  

Lunch at the Artemis Cafe recharged our physical bodies with fresh pita bread, Mediterranean salads and BBQ of chicken, lamb and beef. Honey donuts and bananas satisfied the sweet tooth and then we were on the road again.  

We headed south on Highway 50 which originally was one of the ancient trade routes called the King’s Highway. You can read about this highway in Numbers 20. It was about a three hour drive. As I looked out over the desert, I imaged the Israelites' journey and felt more understanding towards them and their grumbling, even knowing what God had already done for them. Despite their grumbling, God pursued their redemption just as He pursues us daily. 

We watched a beautiful sunset from The Old Village Resort. This unique lodging place is a favorite of GTI groups who visit Jordan. The Old Village was aptly named as it was created from the ruins of a 19th century Jordanian village. The village was inhabited until the 1970's and is located in the hills above Petra, with stunning views overlooking the Shara Mountains.

Blessed beyond measure.  

Deanna Dukes