Israel during Lent – day 3

Day 3 

After overnighting in Netanya overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, we took off for Caesarea in the Sea, the location of one of Herod’s magnificent palaces, his Roman theater and his Roman Hippodrome, his racetrack for chariots and later place of throwing Christians to the slaughter.  It was in Caesarea when Paul was imprisoned for two years before losing his life in Rome. It was here where instead of pleading for his life he sought to convert his Roman captors, Felix and Festus.  Read Acts 22-26 

On to Mt Carmel, where Elijah defeated the prophets of Baal.  From here we can see the valley of Jezreel, MT Tabor where Jesus was transfigured, Cana, Nazareth…..the Bible is coming alive!! 

Off to Megiddo, the once magnificent most popular city of the region.  Whoever controlled Megiddo and therefore the trade routes, controlled the territory.  Can you just imagine Solomon capturing the sight, rebuilding it and then entering its towering gates in his chariot with full military escort!   So many battles there!  Add Har (hill) to Megiddo and you get the Armageddon of Revelation 16.  In the end those who would rather die than live will get their wish. 

From there on to the Jordan River where 15 or more of us renewed our baptisms by immersion. Pastor Bob and Pastor Jeff had the blessing of doing the renewals and then Pastors Bob Jeff and John baptized each other!!!!  So very, very, very moving.  The call to live for God and serve Christ renewed!!!!! 

Now to bed in Tiberius on the Sea of Galilee. 
Each of us has a room with a balcony overlooking the Sea!!!   Are you kidding me???   

We are right now in the little corner of the earth where God ACTUALLY PERSONALLY SHOWED UP! 
It’s overwhelming.   It’s the most amazing thing that ever has happened on planet earth.  And its meaning could not be more profound and personal for you.  Why did God show up? BECAUSE YOU MATTER TO HIM.   If you can internalize that so that becomes your motivating force in life then your life will find itself increasingly blessed and increasingly fruitful regardless of circumstances.

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