CROSSOVER IN THE LAND - DAY 9

Today was the larger group’s last day in Israel. Although, a few more will go on to see Petra in Jordan, most were experiencing mixed feelings. This is about the time people really begin missing home. Family, loved ones, and priorities at home begin to call us…and yet, there is part of everyone that wants to stay here. Israel has an unexplainable draw to the genuine believer. After all God does always have His eyes on this land. How special it has been to see the gates from Abraham’s day, the caves that David hid in when learning to trust completely upon God, float on the water that Jesus walked on, and stand on the holy Temple Mount where one day Jesus will literally reign as King. Who would ever want to leave all that. And yet, God has much planned for us in our everyday lives. That is what we have learned all about here in the Land of the Bible. We are to live with such conviction and commitment in our area of influence just like the Children of Israel were trying to do in this land.
The day began in a very somber and meaningful way. We visited Yad Vashem which is the holocaust museum here in Jerusalem. It was so much more meaningful because our guide (Gilla) shared with us in a very personal way. Her Mother is a survivor of Auschwitz. She was very tender and transparent with us as she shared what it is like for survivors and their families. We all wanted to just wrap her up in our arms and say, “I am so sorry”. We all feel that much closer to not only Gilla, but all the Jewish people as they struggle to experience new life and hope. The museum was truly moving for all.
After lunch we moved to the close of our journey. How fitting it was to end up at the Garden Tomb where it is believed that Jesus was raised from the dead. The site Golgotha (skull hill) was also attached to this very site. Whether this was the actual historical location or not was not quite so important to us. The fact that Jesus is no longer in a grave but walked out of one just like it was very important to us. We celebrated the Lord’s Supper right there at the site and sang a short but sweet hymn. I think we were all renewed in our deep love and appreciation for what Jesus has done for us. Words cannot adequately express our sense of aching desire to serve the Lord out of our immense gratitude.
The day ended with a sharing time. It was especially sweet to express our thanks to Gilla. We have really grown to love this special lady. “Gilla, I think your dog is calling…she wants to go out again!” Well, I guess you had to be there for that one. We ended with lots of deep reflection, lighthearted bantering, and lots of laughter. This was an incredible trip! Thank you all who went and sought after God with all your heart. May He bless you richly with the precious physical experiences and lasting memories. Thank you all who prayed and supported us while we were here. May the Lord bless you in sharing through our testimony. Thank you to my precious wife and daughters who have gone through a very difficult 9 days. May the Lord bless your sacrifice with the knowledge and mystery of His will. Mostly, thank you Lord for being absolutely faithful. God is worthy of our entire and complete devotion. The land and all that it holds reminds me of that every time I am here. Jesus is coming soon. We must be found faithful.

Watch for updates and more blog about our smaller group extension to Petra in Jordan. I will be taking Scott and Wendy tomorrow morning first thing. Scott is really excited!