Shabbat Shalom Everyone,
Today was Jewish Sabbath and so we were to greet the Jewish people with “Shabbat Shalom”. We had a great day as we left our hotel in Tiberias along the Sea of Galilee and turned west toward the Mediterranean coast.
On our way we stopped at Tel-Megiddo. Megiddo is a fortress city that has been used by many peoples throughout history, including Solomon. Megiddo is a hill that juts out into the Valley of Armageddon. It is in a prime place to overlook the cross-roads of the world. All of the trade routes from Africa, Europe and Asia cross through the Valley of Armageddon and Megiddo is a vital stronghold.
We then toured Mt. Carmel, where Elijah challenged 450 prophets of Baal and won. See our video interview with Elijah to find out more details…
Holy Land 2013 – Elijah Interview from BMZ TV on Vimeo.
We reached the Mediterranean coast at Caesarea by the Sea. This city was built up by Herod the Great. The things he did architecturally are astounding. Caesarea is where Peter met with Cornelius (Acts 10) and began ministry to the Gentiles (non-Jews). It is also where Paul was put on trial by Rome (Acts 23-26ish). Those two events made it possible for you and me to have a chance at a faith in Jesus. First, many of us are not Jewish. Second, Paul’s bold speech in front of the Roman hierarchy helped move Christianity and the Good News of Jesus Christ all across Europe and eventually, around the world.
We finalized our day with a stop for a blessing at Mt. Scopus overlooking the City of Jerusalem before we arrived at our hotel for the night.
Tomorrow we start touring the area of Jerusalem (and Bethlehem). Watch here for the update!
In Christ,
Stan