Galilee

Wednesday we went to Galilee. Think of it...we were in the area where Jesus performed most of His miracles and did most of His teaching. Obviously there was a reason why this area received Him more readily than any other area and, as one entered into the region one could feel a difference in the spirit. The topography and agriculture of the area is strikingly different from Bethlehem and Jerusalem areas. Basically, Galilee is rather beautiful! After going down into the desert (1000 feet BELOW sea level--the lowest land area on earth), passing the Dead Sea we come into Galilee--groves of bananas, citrus, date palms. The Jordan river flows through the area bringing much needed water for irrigation and life.

The first church we visited (picture of olive tree in square and peacock mosaic) is supposed to be on the site that is traditionally the place where Jesus multiplied the bread and fishes to feed the 5000. The locations of these sites are determined by the information given in scriptures, ancient tradition and, of course, existence of ruins.

Another stop we made was where Jesus met with the disciples after His resurrection and asked Peter three times, "Do you love Me?" This church, by the Sea of Galilee (actually a lake) was rather small and was built around a large rock which tradition states is the rock where Jesus cooked the fish for the disciples and told Peter to 'feed my lambs'.

I took this opportunity to cool off my feet in the Galilee and take a handful of rocks and whatever ...

We stopped by and inspected the ruins of the old city of Capernium.

Next stop was church that was situated on a hill overlooking a valley and down into the Sea of Galilee. This is the site where Jesus spoke the "Sermon on the Mount". the church and grounds are rather beautiful. Following this we went for lunch, where I had "st. Peter's Fish". An excellent white-meat fish, grilled to perfection--very moist and yummy.

After the meal some of us swam in the Galilee (nope, didn't bring required swim gear) and then we heading to a place on the Jordan River where you can get your robe and use the waters for baptism. It was all good. A tiring day but a good one!

On the way home we stopped at a rest stop where the local Bedouin had some tents for trading items, lots of snacks. good espresso, ice cream, etc. Next to the souvenir tent were 2 camels waiting for their masters to finish their day and go home.