Holy Land Visit

Lessons learned while in the Holy Land:

-It is true that a Mediterranean diet and exercise is good for you. (Many people gain weight on vacation. I lost 7 pounds).

-Despite eating grilled vegetables, chicken, fish, and hummus nearly every day, I still like these foods.

-Israel in September is just about as hot as Sacramento in July. Some places, like Nazareth, are very humid, and others, like Masada, are very dry --all depends on how close to the Mediterranean Sea or the desert you are.

- When traveling internationally, you will go through so many security checks that you will most likely qualify for a position within the FBI.

-A good hat, sun screen, moisturizer, a cheap little fan to plug into your phone, and LOTS of water, will most certainly be your new best friends.

-If you were out of shape before going to Israel, you will be in much better physical condition when you leave. (There will be much daily climbing up and down very steep steps and slopes, and lots, and lots, of walking and sweating in the heat.)

Some people can be very aggressive, rude, and well, to be honest, annoying. Being on a tour, you're stuck with 40 plus other people, and you must be able to put up with such behavior. There is a reason why much of the world sees us as "Spoiled Americans."

We have become accustomed to convenience and having a wide variety of foods and comforts at our fingertips. When traveling to another country, one needs to be aware of the local foods, landscapes, climate, and culture, and honor and respect that--not gripe about it the whole trip. Forgive them Lord, for they are just people and know not what they do.

-Pretty much everything you've heard about the Dead Sea is true. It has an extremely high salt and mineral content, and it leaves your skin feeling amazing. The water and the mud are very healing.

-The history and the biblical significance of each holy and ancient site is incredible, but words don't do justice for the feeling and presence of both Spirit and spirit in these places. Some are dark and negative, some very solemn, some joyous, but all having a deeply, profound effect on each individual.

-What you have heard or seen on TV about the Middle East is only partly true. Yes, there is still conflict there, and there may always be conflict there until the end of time.

 Yes, terrorism exists, but these are the extremists, and there are evil people of all races, faiths, and cultures. Open your history books. The people I encountered in both Israel and Jordan were just ordinary people like you and me--living their lives, going to school, going to work, and caring for their families. They were very friendly and welcoming, and at no point was I ever afraid.

-A few personal experiences:
-- I am not the same person I was years ago, and I am grateful for that. I am continuing to grow every day.

-- We must take the time every day to be still and listen. That small voice that speaks to you is an important message from God. Listen to it. For His voice only has your best interest at heart and He will NEVER steer you wrong.

-- My life is not my own. No matter how much or how often I try to take matters into my own hands, it's still His will--not mine.

-- I am still on the right path both in my faith journey and in the mundane world.
-- All of God's children are beautiful and worthy of love despite the sin, lifestyle choices, and character flaws.

-- There is life outside of work, and difficult as it may be, you need to make the time for yourself. Work will always be there. Your life won't. Live life to the fullest, keep checking things of your bucket list, and stop talking it so seriously. Spend time alone, time with family, and time with friends who are also family. Frown less, smile more, and seize every moment to enjoy a good, hearty laugh.

-- Don't take everything so personally. This is another difficult area.
--People are just that--people. Some are better than others in the way they treat themselves and others, and some are genuine while others are not. People will say hurtful words, do hurtful things, and will abuse the good qualities you harbor.

People will also care for and love you deeply even if they don't say it aloud or show it much, they still do. Forgive those that hurt you, never stop loving those who love you, and keep moving forward with God.

-- Although I have said this before, it still holds true. I really am blessed with the greatest of family. I have no friends, for the non-biological folks are all family too, and I love you all.

-- Don't go to Holy sites anywhere in the world and expect to see, with your eyes, Jesus. Just like 3 days after being in the tomb, He's not there. He has risen, and is everywhere--within and without (all about) you.  Instead, see with your heart and soul.

-- And lastly but most importantly;

I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVES  !!