Musings: Notes From My Daybook

I have been working on a trip to Israel for over a month and it occurred to me today that I hadn't said a word about it here.  So it is time to say something!

A few weeks ago some good friends who have long desired to travel to Israel asked me when I was going to return. When asked, half in jest, what date they wanted to go, the reply was "next January." Well, one thing has led to another, and now a trip is planned and I expect that others will want to join us for the extraordinary experience of a journey to Israel.
 
January is my favorite time to travel in Israel. The weather is mild ( a lot milder than the midwest or even Atlanta!), the tourists are all home working, and air/hotel rates are a little better (though recent exchange rates have not been kind). But a trip to Israel is more than weather. It is a pilgrimage of faith, a walk through history, and an engagement with a fascinating culture.
 
As a teacher and minister, I can think of no better way to deepen your understanding of scripture, broaden your awareness of history, connect with the social and political realities of our time, and most importantly, explore the contours of your faith than travel in Israel. It is time of prayer and a time for deepening your understanding of Scripture. Just think of visiting Nazareth; spend time in the Galilee where much of Jesus' public ministry was; Capernaum, the headquarters of Jesus, the Mt. of Beatitudes, Multiplication of the Loaves & Fishes, the Sea of Galilee, the Holy City of Jerusalem, site of so much biblical history, the Garden of Gethsemane, Mt. of Olives, Way of the Cross, Bethlehem, the Dead Sea, Masada, the Judean Wilderness, Jericho and so much more. Scripture really comes alive as our biblical faith assumes deeper dimensions which only the heart understands.

If you would have an interest in coming along, then click on the  Pilgrimage--Israel 2008 button on the right.  Or, just drop me an email.  I would love for you to join me and other as we make our way into the past.  Along the way, I expect that we will learn about God's work in the present as well!