First Impressions

The groups from FBC Cornelia and Athens traveled together today.  We arrived in Tel Aviv about 3:45.  Once we arrived we received the news that the large group (42) from FBC Gainesville had trouble getting out of JFK airport in NYC.  It’s a long story that we look forward to sharing – but needless to say, they are spending two uncorfortable days of travel to our one. 

Tel Aviv is a beautiful modern city – looks very European.  It sits on the coastal plain.  The city evolved from the ancient city of Joppa (Simon the Tanner).  Like many things I will be learning this week, the development of the city arose out of a conflict between Arabs and Jews.  We traveled through the ancient city of Joppa (Jaffa, today).  It sits on the Mediterranean Sea.  It was a beautiful day as we traveled up the coast the sun set – blue skies and water.  Lots of people out enjoying the weather. 

We arrived on Friday afternoon as Sabbot begins.  Very few cars were on the road because orthodox Jews do not drive on Sabbot.  All of the stores were closed.  The Arab, more secular section of Jaffa, was gearing up for a busy night. 

We drove up to Caesarea which we were all disappointed we would not get to see (too late), and then traveled north east to Tiberias.  It was dark as we traveled through the Carmite Mountain range (Elisha) and up through the Jezeel valley.  It feels strange just typing these words. 

Tonight, we had a great buffet meal.  We all tried as much as our plates could handle. 

This morning, I read a passage about pilgrimage from NT Wright.  It speaks about the power of places and buildings to carry power and hope.  To get to this place of pilgrimage requires one to move beyond the

surface noise of the experiences and to the heart of God.  We can come at these places scientifically – instead with approach them with a humble attitude to the mystery of God to meet you in these places.  I look forward to seeing how God humbles my life and heart and meets me in the days ahead.