I so enjoyed our days in The Galilee, I found it easy to picture Rabbi Jesus and his disciples there. But this was our day to leave, and I was excited about two special stops we would make before ascending up to Jerusalem.
Our first stop was in Migdal (Magdala in the Greek) at a very precious piece of property called, Migdal Arbel. It was indeed a blessing to be there with Shelli Brim, Pastor George and Terri, and others that were also there when I first stepped on to this land in November of 2001. That’s when I heard the vision for this prayer and study center — it pierced my heart and has never left me, since that time I have felt that a piece of my heart was planted there. The project has been a rocky road, but much progress has been made and we serve a God of miracles. And, in my heart I believe I will return to it again.
Next we traveled to Ariel in Samaria (Hotel Eshel HaShomron) after crossing a security check-point as we entered the West Bank. There we visited with an amazing, courageous couple who run a hotel in Ariel. We heard how Tova Gilboa survived a 2002 suicide bomber attack in the lobby of the hotel, and about her husband, Menachem Gilboa, who was awarded Israel’s highest honor for his heroism that same year. Many Israeli soldiers were saved as Menachem prevented a suicide bomber from completing his mission at a nearby gas station and restaurant. Following that we visited their model of the tabernacle and toured the beautiful city of Ariel.
We then began our ascent up to Jerusalem. We read some of the Psalms, and as we entered the city they played “Jerusalem, Jerusalem.” My heart was lifted and my eyes filled with tears. We arrived in time to visit a park overlooking the city, where Guy, one of our guides also talked about the importance of our visit and support of Israel. Next we made our way to The Inbal and settled in for our first dinner and night in the city.
The second part of our thrilling trip was just beginning, but I’ll share more about that in my next post. Until then, did you know that The Psalms of Ascent (Psalms 120-134) were sung by worshipers as they made the journey up to Jerusalem for the annual feasts? These Psalms are inspiring and amazing, pick up your bible and have a look. Here’s a taste:
I was overjoyed when they said, “Let’s go up to the house of the Lord.” And now at last we stand here, inside the very gates of Jerusalem! O Jerusalem, you were built as a city of praise, where God and man mingle together.
Psalm 122:1-3 TPT
A Grateful Grace-full Life 