On the Sea of Galilee

Greetings from Yisrael (Israel)!!

Today was bookended by the Sea of Galilee! Early this morning we took a boat ride. It was a beautiful morning to be on a boat. In the middle of the lake (because it's really a lake) the boat stopped and we considered how much of Jesus' life happened on and around this body of water. Pastor Gordon talked about the storms that come up in our life and how Jesus is lord of the storm! He referenced Matthew 14: 22-33. We then took some time to be quiet and to pray about the storms in our life. What a place to pray - in a boat on the Sea of Galilee!!

Once back on shore we headed to the town of Katzrin in the Golan Heights. This is where a community of Jews fled to after the Romans destroyed the Temple 1600 years ago. We visited a recreated Jewish village that is used as a teaching tool for Jewish students. We learned how to make olive oil, we crushed grapes with our feet and we made and ate pita bread. Very interesting!! And fun too!!

This was the day that we got an education about the modern country of Israel. As we drove very near the borders of Syria and Lebanon we learned how Israel is always training, always ready to defend itself. We visited Mt Bental, which is very close to Syria. There are military fortifications there that can quickly be readied for war, if needed.

Going back to the Bible, we visited Banias Nature Reserve also known as Caesarea Philippi. In Matthew 16:13-20 the story is told about Jesus and his disciples visiting Caesarea Philippi. He came here and declared Peter the rock upon which his church would be built.

The bookend at the end of our day was getting baptized in the Sea of Galilee. Most people in our group took advantage of this incredible opportunity! Getting baptized is always a big step; an outward sign of a personal commitment to Christ. Getting baptized in the Sea of Galilee took that special experience and sent it into the stratosphere!!

Tomorrow we turn our attention to Jerusalem for the next four days!

Shalom!!