Galilee Day 1

Well we started out by leaving super early in the morning which was obviously great. I gave the devotional/spiritual thought on the bus and talked about receiving answers to our prayers that are contrary to what we want and shared my Philmont story about praying to sprain/break my ankle.

Then we went to Beth Shean which was an important crossroads city in ancient times being a political and cultural center (thanks field trip guide for that amazing sentence!). This place comes up frequently in the Old Testament—being a place that Joshua couldn’t conquer and where Saul’s head was displayed by the Philistines.

It is almost like Disneyland plus a Lindsay sandwich.  Delightful.

Love drinking my wine!

A random wall with Jeff and Lauren.

Next we went to Nazareth which was also amazing. We went to three different churches: The Annunciation Basilica, St. Joseph Church, and Synagogue Church. My favorite of these churches was the Annunciation Basilica because it was all about Mary the mother of Jesus. As some people may know when I was little (before I even knew what reincarnation was) I believed that in my other life I had been Mary. I was a sweet little girl and it just made sense when I read the story about Jesus being born. Well obviously I don’t believe that now, but I would like to believe that Mary and I were really good friends in heaven. I am sure that she is someone I looked up to because she was and is amazing.

Outside the church for Mary.

The synagogue church (as called because it has the remains of an older synagogue) was also cool because we got to spend time reading the scriptures. We read Luke 4:14 and on about Jesus announcing His Messiahship there. Then we sang a few hymns and had personal reflection time. The caretaker of the church thanked us when we left because usually he doesn’t hear reverent hymns but more Amazing Grace type of hymns. There was a great spirit there.

Finally we headed to Mount Arbel which had an amazing view. We went there because it has a beautiful view of Galilee. However, it was cold and rainy which put a damper on it. (Side note: Being honest my pink rain coat isn’t really a rain coat—it is just a cute thin little coat. Yep, it got soaked.) It reminded me a little bit of Stanage Edge only no pride and prejudice music playing in the background.

Mount Arbel overlook.

Then we got to the kibbutz where we are staying—Ein Gev. It isn’t a five star hotel but it will do. We have four girls to an apartment and each get our own little beds. Plus, we are on the beach of Galilee. A little funny note. I am in the farthest little house/cottage thing from the reception center. It takes forever to walk to my place—but hilarious that I am the last one. Pretty much adorable.

Galilee is amazing! It is so beautiful and green—even though it is getting to be winter here. I am loving it!