Today we headed north on the west side of the Sea of Galilee towards the northern panhandle of Galilee. Our first stop was Karazim, this is the city that Jesus cursed in Mat 11:21. We learned about ceremonial washing when there wasn't any access to "living" water. Ask any of us what that meant when we get back as part of a quiz.
Back on the bus to ride even further north. Spent some time in the Dan Nature Reserve and at the top (after a muddy and wet walk - be sure to see Curt's nice socks) we arrived at the Dan Tel with the remains of a large alter used for sacrifice. We could see the Lebanon border from this location (along with some military hardware remains in the fields looking towards Lebanon.
Back to our mobile home to travel in pure comfort to Caesarea Philippi, located at the base of Mount Hermon. The spring at this site is one of 3 tributaries to the Jordan River. It literally comes right out of the ground here. The city was destroyed by an earthquake in 800 AD. This is also the area where it is believed that Jesus predicted his death to his disciples and that they were not to speak of it (Matthew 16:13-28).
Much Israely "modern" history was learned today. It is amazing how parts and borders of this little country has changed hands so many times in recent history. The complexities of the battles and land disputes are mind boggling but one thing for sure is that this is truly the land of milk and honey and that the cultures here will continue to fight for it.
Keep praying for us as we travel tomorrow to the Dead Sea and then on to Jerusalem the next day. We hope you are encouraged by these words and pictures as we experience this time together.
I will be posting more pictures when we get to the Dead Sea - I believe the internet connection will be better there.
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