By Leola Williams, MSW – With an answer to our prayers, 18 members of ‘The 7 a.m. prayer line’ consortium had the opportunity to go on a pilgrimage with the mission-sending organization ‘Go To Nations.’ Experiencing the wonder of Israel on a group tour was an awesome way to view the most significant sites where Jesus ministered. This pilgrimage was led by one of their missionaries, Pastor Lisa Johnson. “Our faith will be enriched for years to come by watching the stories unfold as we walked the tumultuous paths through the land of the Bible,” said organize Leola Williams.
The team of 18 watched the biblical stories unfold daily with detailed coverage led by the tour guide, Chaim Singerman, who explained the spiritual significance of each site. Not a moment was missed to point out scriptures what was taking place as we followed along in our personal bibles. The teaching went beyond the standard itinerary for the best personal spiritual experience.
Throughout the 10-day pilgrimage, our faith was deepened and invigorated as we experienced the sites of the Nazareth village, Mount of Beatitudes, Capernaum, Magdala, and Caesarea Philippi and took a jeep tour of the Golan. The boat ride of the Sea of Galilee was breathtaking as well as the Baptismal site of the Jordan River. Our skin will never feel the same after floating in the Dead Sea of salt at En Bokek. We showered in a constant stream of pure water flowing down into a waterfall at En Gedi. Going up to Jerusalem, Shiloh, Jaffa Gate was enjoyable as we shopped in areas there. Memories were made in the City of David and prayers were made at the Western wall. Explorations took place at Hezekiah’s tunnel, the Great Bridge tour, and the Pool of Bethesda. “It happened at the pool” where many promises were realized and solidified.
The group was excited to tour the Via Dolorosa, Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the Garden Tomb and the view from the Mount of Olives. The Garden of Gethsemane reminded many of the great price Christ paid for our redemption. The trip would not have been complete without the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum, and Friends of Zion Museum. The group witnesses a special time of prayer that took place for the men at Abu Ghosh Ark of the Covenant. The Friday Shabbat Dinner gave a special appreciation for family time and allotted time for rest. “We cant wait to spread the news back home. Imagine your soul being enriched daily as you wait anxiously to connect with the teachings of Jesus that are as real today as in the past because of the personal connection afforded by the Holy Spirit,” said traveler Chinesta Smith.
For more information about an Israel pilgrimage or other missions contact Pastor Lisa Johnson at lisa.johnson@gotonations.org or visit https://gotonations.org/
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