Day 8

Today we started out at the City of David-mostly to walk through the elaborate water system that was created. There were underground tunnels that I think Hezekiah had dug in order for his people to get to the water supply in the event that they were under siege. More archeological digs and rocks. More walking up and down lots of steps and hills. Good workout.

Next we went to the Temple Mount. This is the Moslem Temple in with a large gold dome roof. We were only allowed to enter the gate area-only Muslims are allowed to enter the temple. More ruins.

We then walked into the Old City to make our way to the Garden Tomb that is the traditional site of Jesus's burial. The gardens are managed by an English (UK) branch of the Garden Tomb Association. We had an Englishman as our guide here. There were more excavations here-a water cistern proving a water source for garden's possible existence and a wine press showing that there was a vineyard. We were able to enter the tomb that many believe was the tomb of Jesus. It is a two room tomb only particial complete. Only about 8 of us are able to fit inside one half of the tomb. The other half is the part where Jesus would have been laid. We proceeded to a small chapel where we were able to worship and participate in a communion. Very, very moving. One of the best moments of the trip.

The next stop was the Catholic church built over the site of the dungeon where Jesus would have been tortured. More excavations. Can you tell that I am about full of excavations. They are beginning to look all alike. I'm worried about being able to get all of my picture identified. After deleting most of the bad ones, I have about 630 pictures. And a few minutes of video.

After lunch at the mall (McDonald's) we went to the Holocaust Museum. I have been to other Holocaust museums, but this one is by far the best. Excellent presentation and documentation. Very moving. Since we are in the land of the Jews, I'm sure that they have a much deeper take on all of that. I think that this is the stop that our guide, Danny was most excited about.

For our last stop, Danny took us to a statue of a Menorah. He closed our time together by reminding us of why we came and what we should look forward to-and a reminder to pray for the peace of Jerusalem. A couple of times during the week while we were traveling between sites, Danny had put in a mix tape of Psalms praises. One of them was "Hava Megila" (sp?) The typical song/dance that we see in Jewish movies. Someone asked him to teach us this dance and we talked him into teaching it to us at this site. It was a fun time. He really got into it. The site is across the street from the Parliament and Danny commented that they could probably see us on their security camera.

So that was our day. Back to the Hotel for a little rest before dinner. Tomorrow we start our long plane ride home. Looking forward to that! It's been a great week. Lots of information. Lots of worship. Lots to be thankful for. Lots of friendships created or deepened. Lots to still think about.