Leaving Jerusalem and the Holy Land — A Trip I’ll Never Forget


This week has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. I had the privilege of taking my 82-year-old mother to the Holy Land—her very first time walking where the Scriptures unfolded. She amazed everyone on the trip, averaging 3.8 miles a day on foot. It was taxing at times, but absolutely heart-filling. Watching her take it all in brought the Bible to life in a way I will cherish forever.


Where Jesus Walked — A Journey Through the Galilee


Our adventure we “set sail” on the Sea of Galilee, where we enjoyed a peaceful boat ride with worship and reflection. To glide across those waters—the same waters Jesus calmed—was unforgettable (Mark 4:39).



We visited the Mount of Beatitudes, standing where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7). Then at Capernaum, we walked among the ruins of Peter’s mother-in-law’s house (Luke 4:38–39) and saw the synagogue where Jesus taught.


One of the most powerful moments came at the Jordan River, where several of us experienced baptism in the same waters where John baptized Jesus (Matthew 3:13–17).


At Magdala, we stood on the threshold of an ancient synagogue where Jesus actually walked. To place our feet on stones He touched was indescribable.


Ancient Gates, Bold Confessions, and God’s Power on Display


At Tel Dan, we explored lush trails and the remarkable Dan Gate—a story dating back to Abraham’s era (Genesis 14). Near the gate was the stone that confirmed the historical “House of David.” To see archaeology and Scripture meet so clearly was a faith-strengthening moment.



Caesarea Philippi was another highlight. Standing before the rock where Jesus declared, “Upon this rock I will build My church” (Matthew 16:18), we felt the weight of His words.


From the Golan Heights, we looked out toward Syria and Lebanon—a reminder of the region’s complexity and the biblical conflicts that shaped history.


Where Kings Ruled, Prophets Spoke, and the Gospel Spread


At Caesarea Maritima, we stood where Paul was imprisoned (Acts 23–26) and where King Herod Agrippa was struck down and “eaten by worms” (Acts 12:23).


On Mount Carmel, we revisited the epic showdown between Elijah and the prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18). Reading the story on the very mountain where God sent fire from heaven brought chills.





At Megiddo, overlooking the Jezreel Valley—site of more than 200 historic battles—we reflected on the prophecy of Armageddon (Revelation 16:16). Kingdoms rise and fall, but God’s Kingdom has no end.


Stories in Stone — From the Dead Sea to Masada


We traveled through the Judean wilderness to Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered—ancient manuscripts proving the preservation of God’s Word.


Then came Masada, a symbol of courage and tragedy, and finally En Gedi, where David hid from Saul (1 Samuel 24). Fresh springs in the desert—a picture of God’s provision.


Tiberias, Hospitality, and the Heart of Jerusalem


We spent time in Tiberias along the Sea of Galilee and enjoyed a delicious meal in a Druze community, learning about their culture and hospitality.


And then—Jerusalem.


The Mount of Olives, the Eastern Gate, the Via Dolorosa, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre—each step reminded us:

These things happened. Right here.


No longer just words on a page, but places under our feet.


A Trip That Changed Us


Walking these ancient paths with my mother brought Scripture to life in a way I can hardly put into words. To watch her joy, determination, and awe as she experienced the Holy Land for the first time was a gift I will treasure forever.


The Bible is no longer just read—it is remembered through the sights, sounds, and steps we took together.


And now… off to Egypt—ready for the next chapter in this unforgettable journey.

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