Today was about great beginnings, even though we are in our third day of our visit to the Holy Land. We visited the shepherd's field outside of Bethlehem, and then the Church of the Nativity built over the cave believed to be the birthplace of the Christ child. This church is maintained by the Greek Orthodox faith, and no doubt was a source of lifelong inspiration to Nancy's Aunt Wilma, herself a devote Greek Orthodox.
Many make this pilgrimage and might wait hours for the brief chance to descend into the grotto below the church to see the silver star on the floor marking the spot of Jesus' birth. . .many reaching out to touch it, or get on their knees to kiss this remarkable spot. Thankfully, our wait was modest but the affect on all will last a lifetime judging by the tears and contemplative looks on the faces of the faithful.
As if anything could possibly move us, we were next off to the River Jordan, just above its point of intersection with the Dead Sea. This marks the spot of Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist, and the setting totally matched what most of us would have in our mind's eye. . . .small, flowing river, tall reeds on either side. Stairs have been provided for those wanting to wade in, but our group listened to words from Jack and Amazing Grace sung by Linda, followed by re-baptising with water Jack provided from the river. A couple of us took thumbprints of mud and placed them insides small bibles we brought along.
On the return trip to Jerusalem, we marveled at the desert and its Bedouin residents. . .and on arrival at the hotel, many of us made our way to the Western Wall. . .a most holy site of the Jewish faith. . .which was filled with Jews celebrating the sabbath.
A remarkable day, and one we're happy to share!
John Smith
beautiful writing & what an amazing day.
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