October 25, 2009

Bet Shean is a beautiful Roman city that was excavated in the 80's, and is still being excavated today. Of course excavation has slowed down a bit because of funding, but never the less new things are being discovered. Oh, how I wished I could have seen it in its hay day. The beautiful columns lining the main road into the city...the very impressive bath houses...oh...they had flushing toilets. Up above is a picture of all of use using the toilet. In this picture we are pretending to use the toilet, but of course I get in my laugh attack for the picture. It was such a great moment in the old Roman city. Anyways, the best part of the city was going on top of the huge tel and looking out over Bet Shean and the surrounding area. It was so beautiful and breath taking. The photo to the left is a picture of the tel I climbed up to see. Even up at the top you see even more ruins. Imagine what can be found under that huge tel. All the history that is ready to be uncovered. All the curiosity of what happed in these buildings...what excitement or danger that took place...all these thoughts and even more are being played through my head. One thing I love about this trip is being able to grow in my knowledge of the bible and the history of the different time periods. It has fired up a new passion or love for God's chosen people and his chosen city. In ancient times people thought Jerusalem was the center of the Universe. As you can see in this primitive map...Jerusalem is in the center, then Europe, Asia, and Africa. This trip has brought the bible to life for me. I am so excited that this trip is not over because there is so much to learn in such a short period of time. Now when I read my bible it will bring new light and understanding of a passage just by knowing what the place looks like.

Thank you Lord for this incredible opportunity to be wondering in your city. Being in your city has given me a new perspective and understanding of what you have written in the bible. I hope to grow more in love with you...continue giving me understanding, knowledge and a new perspective on your written word. Continue to fire new passions within me. God bring peace to this nation. The people in your nation are still under conflict with each other. Soften their hearts...even if they do not believe in you. One day you will return and all will know that you are the one true God. I love you and praise you!