Unpacking

What an amazing trip!!!

We just returned from the Holy Land

and have much to think about.

From the breath taking views of Arbel

to the salty waters of the Dead Sea

to the beautiful cities of Jericho, Bethlehem,

and Jerusalem, the City of David.

Memories of this trip are many and will

be with us for the rest of our lives.

Some souvenirs that we brought home were,

a water colour painting of the busy Via Dolorosa streets,

beautiful Hebron glass water glasses,

Olive wood figurine, fresh dates,

Olive Tapanades, spices,

a few stones and sea shells from the Sea of Galilee,

some silver coins and shekels,

and a camera full of pictures!

This was a service tour and the 

first 2 days were spent helping

with the Olive Harvest at Nazareth Village, 

a first century experience for visitors and tourists.

This was definitely one of my highlights

We were dressed in first century clothing

as we picked olives, ate some wonderful

lentil soup, date spread, flat breads,

and drank a lot of water - it was very hot!
We were even used as "extras" for a film
crew that was there on the last day.

We had trouble recognizing each other as we worked! That's me and the farmer top right in the back, our pastor and wife (tour leaders) directly in front of us and our friends Jan and Dave far left, with new and old friends in between!

Many ancient ruins in such places like Capernaum, Tiberias,
and Qumran

A very moving communion service at the Garden Tomb
and a visit to Bethlehem's The Church of the Nativity
and a special siting of a real shepherd in the fields near Bethlehem!

We were blessed to walk where Jesus walked and have
found new life and meaning in the holy scriptures!

Our eyes were also opened to the plight of Palestinians who
are trying to live in this parched land!
Sadly, it seems as tho "Peace on Earth" has a long way to go.

Until next time ..........tackling loads of laundry!  Thankful that I have water for this task, unlike some

of our friends in Bethlehem!