Jerusalem

Tonight we got back a little earlier, so I hope I can capture our first day as we walked down the road for our first glimpse of the Holy City. We were in awe of what we saw spread out before us. All week we have studied about God's faithfulness, both now and in the past of God's faithfulness and love for the city of Jerusalem.

We spent a few moments in an Olive Garden and reviewed the agony Jesus went through the night He was betrayed. It was a sobering thought to think what lie ahead for him.

Just a few pictures of time in the garden.

We then went down into a cave nearby where three prophets were buried. Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi. We were handed candles and explored the cave. 

We then walked over to the Mount of Olive and saw trees that were over 2,000 years old, they really believe this is the spot where Jesus prayed and perhaps it was one of the very trees we. Saw! 

We proceed down the road and entered the Stevens Gate of Jerusalem. Just as in Jesus times, the narrow streets are filled with people, sights and sounds. 

As we walked alone the Via Delarosa ( the path Jesus took to the cross), we could only wonder what it felt like to carry the cross amongst all the jeering people and the agony of his mother and the disciples.

Everyone was ready for a break and we found a small shop that made fresh orange and pomegranate juice. Delicious!

Time for a group photo opportunity, overlooking the Kidron Valley and the Mount of Olives.

Lunch was at a park, it was a typical Israelie lunch. Bread, spices, hummus, goat cheese and beverages.

The kids took sometime just to relax and play!

Our last stop of the day was at a private home of a friend of Boaz, who while building his home, he discovered a cave beneath the foundation. He gave us a lecture of how he found it and what he found. We descended down a long ladder and explored the cave and his find. He actually found the ossuary of the last king of Israel and his bones. Very interesting story, will tell you more sometime. It literary changed the man's life and his relationship with God. He also gave a blessing to Ken and I in celebration of our 50th anniversary. We had a great day!

Jerusalem is so different from Galilee and the desert, but all are special in their own unique way.

Time for dinner and a good night's rest.