Israel Day #7

TODAY'S PICTURES...





Today we finished early, but we accomplished much!! If you follow along in the pictures, we went to a model of ancient Jerusalem city. This was not a perfect model, but it gave a good visual of what the temple looked like (a monstrosity), and how the remainder of the city laid out. Also at this location (Archaeological Park), there were actual remnants and documents from the Dead Sea Scrolls. On Wednesday we visited where Scrolls were actually found, but the authentic documents were located at Archaeological Park. Seeing these documents and scrolls that were written 2000 years ago was astonishing.

Next we visited the house of Caiaphas (Matthew 26:57-75, John 18:25-29). This was where Jesus spent a night in captivity before the crucifixion, the night prior to going on trial with Pontius Pilate. Also, in the vicinity of this house, Peter denied Christ 3 times before the rooster crow… Ok, here is the amazing part of this visit… there is a cell type basement that is traditionally known as where Jesus was held captive for that night. There is no reason to believe that this was not the actual location where he spent the night. As we stood in silence in this cell, Gideon, a member of our crew read from the book of Psalms. Sitting in that cell was heartrending, and somber at the same time. We know the end of the story, so it was not as sorrowful as it could have been.

We then toured the Tomb Garden. In Tomb Garden, you can see Golgotha, “Skull Hill”, where Jesus was crucified (Matthew 27:33, Mark 15:22, John 19:17). This is 1 of 2 places debated for Golgotha. Embedded in the rocks is the image of a skull. If you walk approximately 100 yards away from Golgotha, there is a tomb. This is the tomb where Jesus lay. As you know he only spent a couple nights there. It was unreal walking through the garden and seeing the tomb from a distance. We walked in the tomb, and you can clearly see how this could have been the tomb where Jesus laid. After walking in the tomb, and taking pictures, we gathered in the garden and discussed the Scripture where he was crucified and rose again. Each student and adult shared their testimony of how they gave their life to Christ. Each story was unique and encouraging in it’s own way. Sitting in that garden and walking in the tomb where Jesus laid, or could have laid, or IT DID NOT MATTER,… you want to know why??? Because, He is not here; he has risen! – Luke 24:6.

From Israel Day #7

As I walked out and looked at that door sign, it gave me chills knowing we do not worship a god that lays in a grave. We do not worship a god that made empty promises. We worship the ONE TRUE LIVING GOD!!! That is mind-boggling.

The remainder of the day is simple when comparing the experience of walking through the tomb of Jesus. We oversaw Jordan, and the Jordan Valley. We saw some sheep, and a precious young lady holding a baby. As we were leaving the tomb, we heard the bell ring, for the Muslim prayer time. This is 1 of the 5 times daily the nation of Islam prays toward Mecca, there is a picture in the slide show through the railing where a man is praying… Sad.

Once again, this was incomparable day. The Ferguson’s are good, and I am in awe, DAILY… of the fact they have blessed us with this experience. Praise be to the One True Living God, Jesus Christ (John 14:6, Acts 4:12). Thank him today for his greatness, and tell someone else of something great he has done for you in your life!!!

Israel day #6

PICTURES...





Jerusalem, the holy city. We arrived in Jerusalem this evening; fabulous, truly fabulous. It is a place where so many events took place. Let's begin with the day, and I will get back to Jerusalem.

We started early and went to Massada. This was basically a plateau on a massive mountaintop that was turned into a city by King Herod in 1st Century BC. This is the same Herod that killed all the babies 2 and under, when Christ was born. There were palaces, saunas, bath houses, and everything. It was a regular city on a mountaintop. It is incredible how they lived up there. The crazy thing is Herod built the place, or had slaves build it, and there is no record that he ever spent a night there. Talk about the ultimate vacation home!!

Just down the road, we went to Engedi. This is the cave where David hid from Saul (I Samuel 24). Saul came after David to kill him. God laid Saul into the hands of David, and he could have killed him, but chose to spare his life. He cut off a piece his cloak, and came after Saul explaining. Saul realized his righteousness, and he granted him right to succeed him as king. It was in the middle of the desert, and we went on an extremely long hike. On this hike, there were several waterfalls in the center of the desert. Where the water came from?? I have no idea!! It is incredible how God created this world.

We stopped briefly on the side of the road, and rode camels, yes, we rode camels. Over the edge of the mountain, within the distance, we could see the Jericho Road. This was the old road that people used to travel from Jerusalem to Jericho. Jesus must have used this road to travel to Jericho. This was also the road the story of the Good Samaritan took place. We could not see this up close, but from a distance, you could clearly see a road that traveled a long way.

Next was a long bus ride to Jerusalem. We took a break before dinner, and then went into the Temple Courts from the 1st Century. We walked upon the Wailing Wall. This wall was built by King Herod (What wasnt built by Herod?? - His goal was to turn Israel into Rome). This temple was used in Jesus time, and they can guarantee Jesus walked the streets and was in this temple. We saw some of the original streets, and the wall was entirely original (except for the top 20%). We saw Jewish men and woman worshiping and praying on this wall, because this wall was considered holy because it was there 2000+ years ago (ancient Jewish times). It reminded me of Romans 10:1-4 - ...they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.... It is sad to see them worship, not fully understanding what they worship. They are so close by believing most the Old Testament, but dismissing the fact that their Messiah has already come. Pray for them as you can see them worship and pray on the wall (in the pictures). I would upload a video, but it is about a 2 hour process, and it is 1130pm, and I am ready for BED!!

Love and miss you guys. 3 more days, and we will back in Naples, God willing!! Watch some of the NCAA Tourney for me, I am hating missing it, but I am doing something much more worthwhile. Cheer on the Cards for me!!

Prayer Request

I just got news from America that a friend and missionary in SE Asia passed away within the past 24 hours. They have 5 children. Please pray for the family, and that this death will have a eternal impact on the country he serves. Thanks

Israel Day #5

Pictures...






Today was much less intense than yesterday, although it was an exciting and adventurous day. Today’s journeys started at the Jordan River (Mark 1:4-11). John the Baptist baptized several followers in the Jordan, as well as Jesus. We were not at the exact location where Jesus was baptized, although we were within 100 miles. It was a site to see and step into the water where Jesus was baptized.

We then traveled to Beth Shan National Park. It was a beautiful city, which had just been excavated within the past 30 years. Historically, they say it was erected in the late Canaanite period (16th-12th century BC), under the seat of Egyptian rule. The lords of Beth Shan defeated the Israelites, and displayed Saul’s body and his son’s bodies on the wall of the city (I Samuel 31:10-13). Later Beth Shan was taken by King David, and became an administrative center during King Solomon’s reign. We stood on the top of a mountain neighboring the city, and overlooked Beth Shan, while imagining people walking down “Main Street” of the city. It was a gorgeous site to see.

Next stop was the Caves of Qumran. This is where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. We toured through some of the mountains, and saw inside a couple of the caves. To say at the least, they had extremely humble means. This day was closed a little bit different than any other of the previous three days. We concluded Wednesday by swimming,… well actually we were floating,… on the Dead Sea. It was an experience. The water in the sea has so many minerals and salt, that there is no living thing in it, except approximately 11 under aged teenagers. People travel from all around to swim in the sea, and rub the mud from the bottom of the sea all over their bodies, because “It is good for your skin.” Well unfortunately, I tried it out with the rest of the crew, and I felt like everything less than good!!! Although, it was an activity I am glad all of us were not too proud to participate. I am now sitting in our luxury hotel looking at the Dead Sea in the shadow of the night, still grateful for this incredible opportunity. Just over Half the trip is underway, see ya real soon!! I love you Stacie and London!!


Here is a video for your enjoyment!

Mud from the Dead Sea...

Israel Day #4

PICTURES... Attempt to follow along throughout the day...






Today… WOW… How many days have I begun my post like that? Don’t answer that question please!! If I could give one word that describes today…. INDESCRIBABLE!! Talk about experiencing the greatness of Christ, and encountering the joy of walking where Jesus walked… None will compare with today. I stand my ground on that fact. There was NOTHING LIKE IT. Let me begin…

First stop, Capernaum… Home of Jesus for a significant period of time, and Peter’s mother in law. I will refer to some extremely familiar passages where you can envision what I speak of. As I share, try to follow along with the pictures so that you can attempt to visualize. Read John 1:21-28. This synagogue in which he preached… we stood in the back and read this passage and another about this exact synagogue. I pictured Christ standing there preaching to these men, (as he did in John 6). I could just imagine everyone being in an uproar of Jesus claiming to be the Bread of Life. Then he began to heal… everyone in need. People followed, he could not get away. His next stop, Peter’s Mother in Law’s house, John 1:19-36, we stood outside the door of this house. This is also assumed to be the house where the men dug a hole in the ceiling, and lowered the paralyzed man. This is noted in Mark 2:1-12. It was a delight to see.

Capernaum was phenomenal, but believe it or not, it was NOT the most memorable place we stood today. This place would have to be a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee... If I could have a moment of silence after writing, “a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee,” then I would, it was that surreal. (Forgive me, writing prevents me from having a moment of silence…) As I started this post, I said today was “Indescribable”, this is what comes to mind when I think of that word. It is the only word to express the overwhelming emotion that swept through my mind and body. As we took off from the dock, and began to truly gather the fact that we were riding on the sea where Jesus calmed the storm (Matthew 8:23-27), Jesus healed a demon possessed man, sending the swine into the sea (Matt 8:28-32), He called the first disciples (Mark 1:16-20), He preached parables just off the shore in a boat because the crowd was vast (Mark 4:1-3), and several, several other events took place right around this massive lake, music begin to play over the speakers… I recognized the song. As the artist began to strum his guitar, and the rhythm kicked in, I realized it was “How Great is Our God”, by Chris Tomlin. How fitting. How perfect. How much better of an example can be depicted through song on the Sea of Galilee?? I could not help it, tears welled up, and it was, as stated prior… INDESCRIBABLE!!!!

We then saw a boat from the first century that was a good replica of the boats the disciples used for fishing. You think that would be a good enough conclusion for the day, but not quite. THIS WAS ALL BEFORE LUNCH!!! We had lunch right on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, right where Jesus had conversations with the disciples, and probably spent hours praying to His Father. We laughed, skipped rocks, and just imagined Him possibly doing the same thing with 12 other men just like us.

After lunch, we embarked up a large mountain. This was called Mt Beatitudes. Yes, you guessed it, the mountain where Jesus preached the Beatitudes in Matthew 5. There was a Catholic church on the top. I stood on the top videotaping and shooting pictures envisioning the crowds looking up at him while he preached, Blessed are those who are pour in spirit… What made the image even more beautiful,… around the church and gardens, I heard the Beatitudes being read in several different languages. If that does not entirely bring praises to our King, then I don’t know what does. It was glimpse of heaven.

Last stop, Caesarea Philippi. At this location, Jesus begged the disciples, “Who do people say I am (Matthew 16:13-20)?” We also saw previous sites of pagan worship temples. Then we walked along a path of God’s creation down a stream ,which fed into the Jordan River, and saw a beautiful waterfall. On this walk, we saw every aspect of God’s wonderful artistic design, from snow-capped mountains, to gorgeous flowers, various animals, and even a gathering of cacti. It was quite the hour and half trip. The day ended by visiting a war bunker used in the early 1960’s by the Syrians. We overlooked Syria as this was on top of a mountain.

Holy Schnickies!! That was a full day, worth every second of exhaustion and fatigue. Tomorrow will be much more relaxing as we are visiting the Dead Sea, and several other places… IT DOESN’T STOP, and WE LOVE every second of it!!! Praise the Lord for allowing us to experience this incredible journey. Have a FANTASTIC Day!!

Israel Day #3

Once again, included is an album of the past day's events. Click on the album, and it will take you to Picasa, you can save/print the images, or you can order the prints...






Today was packed full of journeys and ventures. I could describe every area for a couple hours, but for your sake, I wont,… you can thank me later. WOW, to say today was not incredible is an all out exaggeration. I have never been so enamored with my own two eyes.

We began the day in Caesarea (officially coined the term, Caesarea National Park) This location was part of King Herod’s town which he built in the early BC era, which dates all the way back to 500 AD. We saw 2 amphitheatres, one of these were used for ancient games, chariot races, and various fights between humans and animals, King Herod’s personal pool (it really was his personal pool), Herod’s Harbour which he created to charge taxes for travel, and an aqueduct which extended for over 35 kilometers to provide water for this city. Part of this area was also rebuilt in the Crusade days when Muslims had gained control of the area.

Our next stop was Megiddo. Megiddo means Armageddon, one of its references is in Revelation 16:16. King Solomon, and Ahab had definitely traveled through one of the many levels of ruins here. There were at least 17 layers of ruins in Megiddo in several different areas. Much of the city had been recovered, it was neat to see what only a remnant of the city looked like from 1000s of years prior. We stepped onto the highest point of Megiddo and overlooked Nazareth, and the Mountain where Jesus transfigured himself…. Yeah, it was amazing!!!

Following Megiddo, we trekked to Mt Carmel. Mt Carmel is the location where Elijah challenged the kings of Baal to see whose god was truly God. After the prophets and kings of Baal realized Elijah’s god was God, they all bowed a knee. We stood atop Carmel, and read the passage where God sent the fire down (as another groud did the exact same thing). We attempted to imagine God’s hand at work with Elijah. It was indescribable.

We then visited the Bahai Faith founder’s grave, and Nazareth. Nazareth looked nothing like it did in 1st century times, but there was a recreated village to help you understand what life was like in in the 1st century. A good portion of the New Testament, and Jesus’s life took place right under our feet. Our tour guide was Miriam. Miriam feels she could be called to missions. I was able to encourage her, and explain how significant of a role she could play wherever she lands. Please pray God confirms that call, and gives her a Gospel alone mentality.

Our final destination was the Church of Annunciation, a Catholic church that had recreated Mary’s house. It was sad to see the church place so much emphasis on Mary, but relieving to see Christ in the church as opposed to no Christ at all.

To say at the least, this day was information overload, but it was still a delight, and an unforgettable experience. Tonight we are staying in Tiberius. The image of several of these places we visited will be engrained in our minds for the rest of our lives. By visiting these places, it literally brings the Bible to life. We are grateful for this opportunity, and do not know if we will be coming home. Sorry families, but I think you understand, right??

DAY #2 IN ISRAEL

Included is an album of numerous pics from all events the past two days. You can click on it to view them full screen or save them to your computer if you would like...





This was our shorter and less demanding day, but it was still amazing altogether. We woke up, and went straight to church. It was a Lutheran church, so a little different than most of us has ever seen, but it was still a blessing. There are not a lot of Christians living for Christ in Israel, but it is a great encouragement to know there is a small remnant who are currently living for Christ. As we wish there were more Christians in a formally Christ filled area as Israel once was. We must to remind ourselves, 12 men changed our world as we know it today. So that 20-30 people at this church could have an impact on a nation with the right prayer support. Pray for this small group of believers.

In church, We sang hymns, listened to an organist ROCK IT OUT (she was outstanding!), we sang a couple familiar praise songs, listened to a message from John on spiritual warfare (we must CHOOSE daily to play on God's side), and finally most of us took communion.

Following the worship service, we traveled to a small house, where Peter saw a vision of a sheet coming down from heaven with different animals. Following the vision, Cornelius visited Peter, this took place in Acts 10. This house was the historical location, and the house represented the area; it was incredible knowing Paul prayed to God within a short distance of where we stood.

Next was by far the most encouraging. We walked on the port (harbor) where Jonah fled from God, and went to Tarshish. This was also the port where King Solomon received cedar wood for the temple. It was truly the place where Jonah boarded a small fishing boat. Read it in the book of Jonah, WE WERE THERE TODAY!!! It really happened, and we could picture Jonah boarding that boat (the waves were strong as well, so we could relate with the rough seas they experienced in the Mediterranean).

Later in the afternoon, we saw a Mosque (Nick is considering entering), we saw a Armenian Convent (Nick is peeping in the window hole, and we went to Independence Hall, and heard the story of how Israel became a free nation. Following I-Hall, we jumped in the freezing ocean, relaxed in the jacuzzi, and had dinner at a small steak restaurant. It has already been an incredible journey, and we have only truly been through one day. Tomorrow we will be traveling to Caesarea, Nazareth, and a few other locations. It will not be near as relaxed as today has been, so we are ready to hit the ground running early in the morning. Have a great week, and I hope everyone is doing well! As I miss my family, I know our young people miss you all as well!!

ISRAELEAN ARRIVAL!!!

We have arrived, not spiritually, but physically!! We wont arrive spiritually until full sanctification... heaven!! But we are pretty close, being at the place where Jesus was born, grown, died, and rose again!!! It is incredible, yet it truly hasnt started. We are visiting a Lutheran church tomorrow (only Evangelical church in all Joppa). Then we are touring Joppa, I can not tell you entirely what that will entail as of now. Everyone is doing well, I am doing best, because I was blessed with a 1st class seat. I cant tell you how hard it is suffering for the Lord in 1st class, it is a different ballgame!!

Please pray for us: Pray that our hearts will be prepared to encounter the places we will visit. There is nothing worse than encountering something truly remarkable and not realizing the significance of what you are facing. Also pray that we are able to adjust to jet lag, so that we are not consumed with frustration of tiredness.

I am grateful for your prayers, and remember how good our God is... Psalm 34:8 - Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him.

In the Newark airport

While wasting time in the Newark airport, Kris found himself a new
shirt... He is a big fan!!

Israel team b4 departure...

That's one good looking team!!

ISRAEL DETAILED ITINERARY - May be confusing, if you want hardcopy email me...

ISRAEL TRIP
March 13 - 22, 2009

10:50pm, 3/13 Depart Newark CO 90
Depart: Terminal C

Sat Mar 14 3:10p Arrive Tel Aviv CO 90
Arrive: Terminal 3 International Diesenhaus-Unitours transfer guide Jacob (Yankale) Shorer or Udi Shorer will meet you immediately after
coming out of Passport control – at the customers area – for transfer to hotel. If there is a problem or you
can’t find him, go to the Ministry of Tourism desk and have them page the Diesenhaus representative, Linette Mitrani. Diesenhaus-Unitors Direct Line – 03-565-1311

HOTEL Dan Tel Aviv Hotel
99 Hayarkon St
Tel Aviv Israel 63432
Telephone: 011-9723-520-2525 Fax: 011-9723-524-9755
Deluxe Elegant Hotel, housed in 7-story, mid-20th-century-style building situated at city center, facing the beach. Year Built: 1947 Year Last Renovated: 2004
Overlooking sandy beaches – buffet breakfast included
http://www.danhotels.com/Deluxe-Hotel-Tel-Aviv

Sun Mar 15 GUIDE: Your guide for the entire stay is Joseph Shaufani
Local cell number is 054 786 1645
Private Motor Coach for the week

AM Church Services at Immanuel Lutheran Church

TOUR Joppa, Tel-Aviv and the Ha’Aretz Museum

HOTEL Dan Tel Aviv Hotel
99 Hayarkon St
Tel Aviv Israel 63432
Telephone: 011-9723-520-2525
Fax: 011-9723-524-9755 – buffet breakfast included

Mon Mar 16 TOUR Caesarea Maritime, Mt. Carmel, Elija’s Cave, Meggido, Nazareth Village
Sepphoris, Tiberias

HOTEL Sheraton Moriah Tiberias
Habanim St 1
Tiberias Israel 14103
Telephone: 011-9724-671-3333
Fax: 011-9724-679-2320
Superior First Class Distinctive 12-story Hotel of striking modern design, set on the coast of the Sea of Galilee. Buffet breakfast included
http://sheraton.co.il/english/index.php?id=2

Tues Mar 17 TOUR Sail on Sea of Galilee, Visit ‘Jesus Boat’ Museum, Caprnaum, Tabgha,
Caesarea Philippi (Golan Heights)

HOTEL Sheraton Moriah Tiberias
Habanim St 1
Tiberias Israel 14103
Telephone: 011-9724-671-3333
Fax: 011-9724-679-2320 Buffet breakfast included

Wed Mar 18 TOUR Beit Shean, to Dead See – relax, float on Dead Sea waters, or use Spa

HOTEL: Le Meridien Dead Sea
Mobile Post Ein Boqeq
Ein Bokek Israel 89680
Telephone: 011-972-8-659-1234
Fax: 011-972-8-659-1235 – Buffet Breakfast Included
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1882

Thurs Mar 19 TOUR Massada, Ein Gedi, Qumran to Jerusalem

HOTEL: King David Jerusalem Hotel
23 King David Street
Jerusalem, Israel 94101
Telephone: 011-9722-620-8888
Fax: 011-9722-620-8882
Deluxe Famous Traditional Hotel in the classic vein, a 6-story, pink-sandstone landmark in the heart of modern Jerusalem
View of old city - Buffet breakfast included
http://www.kingdavid-jerusalem.com/

Fri Mar 20
TOUR Old City, Rabbinical Tunnel, Archaeological Park, Mount of Olives,
Gethsemane, New City, Shrine of the Book, Garden Tomb

HOTEL: King David Jerusalem Hotel
23 King David Street
Jerusalem, Israel 94101
Telephone: 011-9722-620-8888
Fax: 011-9722-620-8882 View of old city - Buffet breakfast included

Sat Mar 21
TOUR Continue city visit as per above

HOTEL: King David Jerusalem Hotel
23 King David Street
Jerusalem, Israel 94101
Telephone: 011-9722-620-8888 Fax: 011-9722-620-8882 –View of old city - Buffet breakfast included

All Passengers fly together to Newark:

10:40p Depart Tel Aviv CO 91 Depart: Terminal 3 International

6:30a/9:32a Newark / Ft Myers CO 376
Depart: Terminal C

CONTACT NUMBERS:
1-920-265-6108 Larry Ferguson Cell
1-920-819-0079 Kay Ferguson Cell
1-800-645-5732 Dan Tagger – Canaan Tours
1-631-345-3657 Dan Tagger Direct
054 786 1645 Joseph Shaufani Cell – Israel Guide
03-565-1311 Diesenhaus-Unitours Direct

ISRAEL 2009 UPDATES

THIS IS WHERE YOU CAN COME FOR YOUR ISRAEL UPDATES. I WILL SINCERELY TRY TO DAILY ADD A PIC OR A BRIEF STORY FROM THE DAY. MY PHONE SHOULD BE FULLY CAPABLE OF ALLOWING THESE UPDATES. PLEASE BE PRAYING FOR US, THIS IS OUR TEAM...

NATHAN DOOLEY
KYLIE ZAWACKY
KRIS WOODS
NICK SAVOIE

@ doctor, waiting for 2nd round of shots...

Shopping day, bored and lying around!!!

Go cards