Israel '13 - Day 1

We began the actual touring part of our pilgrimage today. Our first activity was a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. We met captain Daniel, a convert to Christianity here in Israel. We enjoyed hearing his testimony and inspiring worship music he sang for us. That was a nice surprise. In the middle of the lake we stopped and read the story from Matthew that told the story when Jesus was sleeping in the boat during a great storm. The disciples thought they were goners until Jesus rebuked the wind and waves.  Jesus bring your "great calm" to my life!

We saw the beautiful church and gardens which commemorate the Beatitudes and the Sermon on the Mount. It was also enjoyable to see several other areas around the Sea where Jesus was active during His ministry.

We ended the day with a trip to Beth Shan and were impressed by the tremendous Roman era ruins there.  It was also sobering to see what grand achievement man accomplished come to an end in one day with an earthquake.  Are you building for this life or eternity?  Laying treasures in heaven or on earth?

 JESUS BOAT

MOSHE GUIDING IN BEIT SHAN

Shalom and good night from Ramot Israel!

Safely in Israel!

Thanks for everyone's help and prayers in getting me on the plane and to Israel!  We had an uneventful flight (although I think a certain part of my body is still numb after sitting for 8 hrs + in my seat without getting up!) and arrived in Tel Aviv at 3:15 Israeli time.  There's a 7 hour time difference so after only cat napping on the plane I am ready to crash tonight.  It's already 10p.m. here!

Tomorrow we ride on the Sea of Galilee, see Capernaum where Jesus' ministry was centered, visit the Jordan for a baptism and see the OT city of Beit Shan.  Thursday we'll see Caesarea Phillipi, Dan, have an inspiring view of the Sea of G, and see where 3 countries meet as well as have a great view of Mt. Hermon from Har Ben Tal.

Our group is composed of 9 people from the states and 9 with Venezuelan roots--7 of whom only speak Spanish!  Pray that we will be able to overcome the language barrier and with a common love for Jesus be good companions for the next 7 days!

Thanks for reading and with a little luck tomorrow I'll post a couple of pics.  Good night all!