Recently, I had the incredible privilege of visiting Israel, a land rich with biblical history, profound teachings, and a deep sense of connection to the roots of our faith. As I walked in the footsteps of Jesus, each step brought fresh insights, powerful moments of reflection, and an overwhelming sense of awe. I want to share a few highlights from the trip, along with the profound lessons I’ve carried home with me. If you’re considering making this pilgrimage, I encourage you to go. It’s truly a transformative experience.
Where We Went: A Sacred Journey
Our journey took us through some of the most iconic places in the Holy Land:
• The Jordan River: One of the most personal and unforgettable moments of the trip was visiting the Jordan River. As I stood at the riverbank, I remembered and affirmed my own baptism. It was a deeply moving experience to reflect on the significance of that moment, standing in the very place where Jesus was baptized by John, and reaffirming my own commitment to follow Christ.
• The Mount of Olives: This hill is not only breathtaking in its view of Jerusalem but also spiritually significant, as it marks the place where Jesus often prayed. Standing there, you can almost feel the weight of His moments of solitude and surrender.
• Gethsemane: The garden where Jesus prayed before His crucifixion became a space of deep personal reflection. The ancient olive trees still stand there, reminding us of Jesus’ final moments of prayer before His sacrifice.
• The Garden Tomb: A place of serene beauty and deep significance, the Garden Tomb was a reminder of the victory of the resurrection. Jesus isn’t in the tomb; He’s alive!
• The Walled Off Hotel: In contrast to the spiritual pilgrimage, we also had the chance to visit the Walled Off Hotel, an art hotel created by the street artist Banksy. Located in Bethlehem, the hotel sits near the controversial Israeli West Bank barrier, which divides the city. The hotel serves as a reminder of the complexities of life in this region. Through its art and the starkness of its surroundings, it opens up a conversation about peace, division, and hope in the midst of conflict.
Big Takeaways & Moments of Reflection
One of the most profound moments of the trip was standing in the Garden of Gethsemane, surrounded by ancient olive trees. These trees, some a thousand years old, reminded me of the immense suffering Jesus endured here. In this very garden, He faced the weight of His impending crucifixion, praying, “Not my will, but yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Jesus’ willingness to endure such agony for our salvation struck me deeply. It reminded me of the power of surrendering to God’s plan, even in our most difficult moments.
One of the most profound takeaways from this trip was realizing that God hears our prayers, whether we’re on a boat in the middle of the Sea of Galilee or back home in Carrollton, GA. The same God who listened to the cries of His people thousands of years ago is still present and attentive to our needs today. His presence isn’t confined to a specific place or time; He is always near.
Safety: The Big City Near You
If you’re concerned about safety, let me put your mind at ease. Israel, like any major city, has areas that are busier or more active than others, but it’s not the “dangerous” place some might think. In fact, I found it quite comparable to visiting any major city — think New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles. Just like any place, you need to stay aware, but overall, the safety measures are strong, and the people are welcoming and kind. Our group felt secure and cared for throughout the entire journey.
The tours were well-organized, and we always had knowledgeable, trusted guides who provided excellent insights into the historical and spiritual significance of each site. The locals take great pride in sharing their heritage and the story of their land, and they’re eager to show visitors the beauty of Israel.
Encouragement to Make the Trip
If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Israel, I wholeheartedly encourage you to make the trip. The experience of being in the places where Jesus lived, taught, and sacrificed is beyond words. It deepens your understanding of the Bible in ways that a textbook or sermon cannot. Walking where Jesus walked brings the Scriptures alive in a new and profound way.
Whether you’re a lifelong believer or just beginning to explore your faith, Israel offers an opportunity to connect with God in a personal and tangible way. There’s something about being in that land that shifts your perspective — it’s not just history, it’s a living, breathing testament to God’s faithfulness throughout the ages.
If you’ve been on the fence about it, I encourage you to take that step and attend a trip. It might just change your life.
Remember, “Call to Me and I will answer you, and show you great and hidden things that you have not known.” (Jeremiah 33:3, ESV). Israel is a place where God reveals His wonders in ways you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.