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Israel Trip day 9
Sunday 3/11/18
James here - Shalom
We started our day with a whole group worship service on the southern steps of the Temple Mount. Getting all 14 busses, 600 plus people to the Southern steps of the Temple was quite a feat for sure. We had a dramatic presentation from “Simeon the priest.” As you may remember he is the one who met Mary and Joseph when they brought Jesus to the temple when He was a baby. His famous line was “now let me die in peace, my eyes have seen the salvation of Israel.” David Phelps sang “I Walked Today Where Jesus Walked” & Chuck Swindoll gave an inspirational message. After the service we hit the road - walking. Our guide, Ron, explained the differences in the stones in the temple wall and the time periods they represented. Around the corner from the southern steps we had the opportunity to visit the Wailing Wall. There were bits of papers stuck in every crack and crevasse—each representing a prayer request. The mens’ and womens’ sections were separated by a wall. I was struck by the sincerity and earnestness of the people who were praying. I said my prayers, put my paper in the wall and walked away, forever touched by the experience. From there we went to tour the Jewish quarter of the old city and was able to do a little shopping. The day before, was Saturday, their Sabbath. The difference was incredible! The day before it was like a ghost town, but not today. You could hardly make it through the streets for all the people. The merchants would try their best to lure you into their shops. When you would start to walk away the price started dropping. It was very interesting to say the least. I personally like posted prices (it is easier) and with this system you always wonder if you got the best price you could. We drove by the Gehenna Gate - the garbage gate. Jesus talked about this area, comparing it to hell were the fire never goes out. All I can say is my respect for what Jesus did for me has grown to a whole new level! Thank you Jesus!
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