Day 07 - Healing, History, and Culture

Our journey through Turkey has been a tapestry of ancient ruins, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. On the seventh day, we delved into the rich history and heritage of lower Pergamon, an area renowned for its ancient healing center and the enigmatic site known as the Gates of Hell.

Our group gathered in the ancient amphitheatre of lower Pergamon, a place that once echoed with the voices of the past.  It was also known for its comedy. Once Pastor Luke found this out he took it upon himself to test out some new ‘comedy’ material for some upcoming sermons……needless to say you probably won’t be seeing him at a local comedy club anytime soon. In our morning teaching, Pastor Luke shared from Luke 4:18-21. The juxtaposition of Jesus’ healing ministry against the backdrop of an area known for its ancient healing practices and the enigmatic Gates of Hell provided a profound setting for reflection. This moment of devotion, nestled within the tiers of an amphitheatre that has witnessed centuries of human endeavor, reminded us of the physical, emotional, and spiritual healing that can be found in Christ (Luke 4:18-21). It gave us a chance to talk about Jesus being portrayed as the Great Physician and being the way, the truth, and the life.

Just a stone’s throw from our gathering spot, the Gates of Hell and the ancient healing center of the Asklepion beckoned. These sites, steeped in myth and history, highlighted the ancient world's complex relationship with health, spirituality, and the afterlife. The Gates of Hell, a place shrouded in legend as a portal to the underworld, and the Asklepion. The archaeological remnants of sacred pools, intricate tunnels, and treatment rooms painted a picture of a society deeply entwined with its beliefs in multiple gods and the practices surrounding health of that time period. It gave new meeting to what Jesus’ words in Reveation 2:13 “  I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives.”, those words came to live know what was going on a Pergamum. We compared it to our culture which often feels dark yet we are called to be a light to the world. 

As we moved forward with our day, the profound lessons of the morning stayed with us, enriching our experience of Turkey's rich tapestry of history and culture, and reminding us of the enduring power of faith to heal and uplift across ages.

The Art of Turkish Rug Making

Our journey continued to a Turkish rug making facility, where the intricate art of weaving came alive before our eyes. Witnessing the transformation of silk cocoons into lustrous threads was a marvel, a testament to the skill and dedication of the artisans. With artisans hailing from 118 local villages, the facility was a vibrant hub of culture and craftsmanship. Trying our hands at weaving, albeit briefly, allowed us to appreciate the immense patience and skill required to create such masterpieces, some of which take up to four years to complete.

An Afternoon in Kusadasi and an Evening by the Aegean Sea

Our afternoon transitioned to the charming town of Kusadasi, where shopping and exploration offered a glimpse into modern Turkish life amidst its ancient roots. The town, with its lively streets and warm hospitality, was a delightful prelude to our evening by the Aegean Sea. The serene beauty of the sea, with the Greek islands visible in the distance, was a perfect setting to reflect on our day's experiences.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, our hearts were full of gratitude. Grateful for the day's lessons in faith, history, and culture, and for the opportunity to connect more deeply with the land and people of Turkey.