And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. {Matthew 4:19, KJV}
One of the greatest things happened this month, I was able to travel to Israel and explore through some of the most meaningful areas in the world! Since my earliest Sunday school days, I remember learning about the disciples and Jesus’ ministry through coloring pages and illustrations.
Through the years, my mind still pictured the images I’d established long ago when I heard messages preached or read my Bible. Being able to walk up the same steps that Jesus walked, sailing on the Sea of Galilee where he walked on water, praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, seeing the tomb where he is no longer, all of these moments encapsulated into a surreal dream. The entire time I was there I kept reminding myself: “You’re actually here!”
This trip was so special to me, because it opened up my eyes to see the Word of God in a completely different light! The stories were suddenly vivid and three-dimensional. Jerusalem wasn’t just an idea in my head, I got to see the people, the cobblestone roads, the thriving towns. Visiting the valley where David faught Goliath, I could see the shepherd boy squaring his shoulders, confident that The Lord would help him defeat his rival. Pictured above, the sea of Galilee is ethereal, you almost expect Jesus to come towards you walking on the waters surface. At the Southern Steps, I could imagine Jesus standing there and teaching anyone who would listen. Words fail to describe the entirety of my trip.
The sights we saw every day were so rich in history and appealed to my inner explorer/archeologist self very much. What wonders God has created! I was so blessed to be a part of this trip to the Holy Land, and I strive to apply the new insight I have gained into my bible reading and sharing of God’s word for the rest of my life. If visiting Israel has been a lifetime dream of yours, I encourage you to pray and make an effort to visit! There is so much to learn and gain from a life changing trip like this!
“The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork.” {Psalm 19:1 KJV}