CROSSOVER IN THE LAND - DAY 1

Today was the first full day, and boy was it full. The group was overwhelmed with the amount of incredible sites and information they were exposed to today. It started with a short drive up the Mediterranean and some very practical information on Israel, the land, the people, and the culture. We even got some birding talk in for Pastor Terry.
The first stop was Caesarea Maritime where the group walked through the remains of Herod’s temple. They were all overwhelmed with the awesome sites. We spent some time in the judgment hall where Paul faced Felix and Agrippa. This was a perfect time to stop and reflect upon our own lives asking the Lord, “Am I really bound to your will like Paul was in saying that I will go wherever you want in my life even if it means chains?”
The next stop was the top of Mt. Carmel. Everyone was gasping at the incredible view of so many Biblical landmarks. It was also very moving to talk about Elijah’s challenge to the prophets of Baal. Again, some practical evaluation of our own lives…”Do we have any dependence upon false gods for our wellbeing?”
Just when they thought it couldn’t get any better, we stopped to walk all around Tel Megiddo where 25 separate civilizations built on top of one another throughout three thousand years of history. It was here that we took advantage of our best view of the valley of Jezreel where the battle of Armageddon will take place. We walked on stones and entrance walkways that Joshua, King Solomon, and King Ahab surely walked on. Robin finally got her chance to take a good look at some 1000 BC horse stables that kept 450 horses of King Solomon.
The day’s journey ended with a drive through Nazareth and our triumphant arrival at the Sea of Galilee where we will stay for the next 3 nights. The dinner table was filled with discussion of the day and much laughter. I think the whole group was a bit punchy from being so tired. I even saw Larry Twitchell get a little silly. What a fantastic group of people. They clearly love the Lord, and everyone is determined to study the Scriptures.
I am so sorry that I am unable to upload any pictures from the day. The internet seems extremely slow tonight so my computer keeps locking up. I will try again later. Trust me when I say they are all very good.