This year my 1st full day in Israel was on Memorial Day for the U.S. We started in Ceasarea and ended at the Sea of Galilee. But in the midst of it, we stopped to remember… to remember that freedom isn’t free, and to be grateful for all who paid the ultimate sacrifice for us.
As on every day of the tour, we began by reading Psalm 91 out loud together (on this day Pastor George and Terri were on our bus and led us). Then we prayed and thanked God for his protection and leading.
Next we visited Ceasarea on the Mediterranean, saw some ruins (including an aqueduct) and other parts that are still in use (like the amphitheater). We also visited Mt. Carmel and saw the Jezreel Valley (a.k.a, the Valley of Meggido).
We planted trees! It’s a big deal — over 2 Million have been planted since they Jews returned to the land in 1948. It was truly an honor to remember those who gave their lives by planting trees. Several leaders and guides shared, and then we got to work in the hot Israeli sun. Our trees will be irrigated for 2 years, and then grow on their own. I like to think of how big they’ll be in ten years – and the part they will plant to make a difference in the land. I am thankful for Albert who helped me plant it too!
On to the Sea of Galilee, with our next stop on the Mount of Beatitudes for a teaching from Matthew 5. I can picture the people sitting on the hills and hearing Jesus with the wild grasses and the wind softly blowing and the sea below. It seems so wild in spots, I think it probably looks pretty much the same as when He walked there with his disciples.
We stayed at the Sea of Galilee Hotel in Magdala (remember Mary Magdalene? – she came from there). The scenery was breath-taking, and as evening came the winds increased making the palm trees sway. We slept with our door cracked open, again… enjoying the gentle breezes and sounds of the Galilee.
I am grateful for every moment. and I for now will leave you with these words from Matthew 5:
“What delight comes to you when you wait upon the Lord! For you shall find what you long for. What blessing comes to you when gentleness lives in you! For you will inherit the earth. How enriched you are when you crave righteousness! For you will be surrounded with fruitfulness. What bliss you will experience when your heart is pure! For you will see more and more of God.”
And I say, amen, so be it Lord.
A Grateful Grace-full Life 