Israel

Just a quick update. We have been here since last Tuesday. What an overwhelming experience- I seem to be getting so much more out of it this 2nd time! To walk around Galilee where Jesus walked- even taking a boat onto the waters where he walked. Having the joy of blessing Israeli soldiers at a base with some clean up and weeding. Although I thought I was done with Bermuda grass when we moved out of California! Seeing the F-16 flights at an air base (memories of Phillip's love of planes) Even seeing the joy and excitement of the Israeli high school boys watching a tank demonstration at a recruiting event. Most of the men in our group, even Jim, would have signed up if they let them. Men don't ever outgrow the love of seeing big, noisy machines firing. Meeting with a member of the Knesset, as well as the former Israeli security head (like the CIA). We also went to an observation post right on the Lebanese border- the UN right below us. The signpost was at the top of a hill overlooking Syria- only 35 miles to Damascus!

So here we are in Jerusalem: the Mt of Olives, City of David, walking though the water shaft that David's troops used to conquer the city. Yet to come: The Garden of Gethsemane and the Empty Tomb. Truly amazing. And of course, all of us concerned for our nation and praying together and trusting the Lord for the future of Israel, the freedom to spread the gospel, and wise government. More later-- SHALOM!