Lessons From The Land

In Memoriam - Solomon Nour

2012-01-27T12:37:00.006-06:00

Yesterday, I visited Hope Secondary School in Beit Jala with Brenda and two other friends. The visit was our first since the death of Solomon Nour, the school's beloved headmaster and our good friend. In the words of many, Solomon Nour was Hope School.

Although the halls and classrooms were filled with teachers and students, there was an emptiness which one could feel. Our visit was not the same as previous stops. Solomon's spirit, his encouraging words, and his deep faith were profoundly missing. Upon leaving, I wondered if we would ever return.

Today, I know that we must return and continue as partners in this ministry. Solomon is no longer there, but his beloved children are. They need all of us who loved Solomon and them.

Hope School is struggling to carry on the legacy. Funds and partners are needed as never before. Please join me in recommiting to the ministry of our Lord among His children.

Join Our Next Familiarization Group in January 2013

2012-01-26T08:55:00.005-06:00

We have said "goodbye" to our 2012 Pastor's Familiarization Tour Group taught by Steve Rettenmayer. The group was in the land for five fast-paced days.

The purpose of the trip was to acquaint them with the land, experience the security of travel, and know first-hand what the Jerusalem Center can provide for future trips where pastors will return with church groups. Our hope at JCBS is that such discounted trips will be reinvested in the teaching ministries of pastors and their churches.

Please accept our invitation to join the January 16-23, 2013 Fam Trip for Pastors. The trip is modestly priced at $1,498 from New York. The pastor's spouse can travel for $1,598.

If the pastor returns within 14 months with a group of at least 20 passengers, the price of the Fam Trip from New York is refunded. The pastor also receives earned trips for the return trip.

Inquire today at jcbs@travelwithus.com. Better yet register now since space is limited.

Capernaum's Millstones

2012-01-24T07:02:00.005-06:00

"If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea"(Mark 9:42).

I felt the gravity of this teaching of Jesus while visiting Capernaum yesterday. Capernaum was known as a fishing village in the first century, but there must have been a secondary industry for the manufacture of millstones. They abound on the site of the chosen home of Jesus.

In Mark's gospel, Jesus has returned to Capernaum from Caesarea Philippi. He stays only briefly, setting his face for Jerusalem. Knowing what faced him there perhaps stirred him to speak with urgency. He warns His disciples to take great care of children and new believers. To cause any to stumble will bring dire consequences.

Noting the size of these millstones and considering their pull if tossed into the nearby Sea of Galilee brought home the weight of Jesus' words. Walking in this land causes one to read the Bible with new eyes and a greater sense of urgency.

2012-01-21T07:58:00.006-06:00

When I visit biblical sites in the land, I often recall those who have been here before me. This thought process provides me with insights for living and often evokes gratitude.

Then there are times to just enjoy the present moment and to give thanks for what God is doing today. God provided rain for the oasis of Jericho today. I am told that it rarely rains in Jericho which lies in the "land of milk." If it were not for the Springs of Elisha, the City of Palms would look like the Wilderness around it. Rainfall is miniscule.

I joined the locals in giving thanks for the much-needed rain and could not help but soak in the resulting rainbow, God's sign of His covenant with Noah. What a remarkable day to be in ancient Jericho!

He Had to Go through Samaria

2012-01-19T13:18:00.006-06:00

Today, I took the road north through Samaria with friends. The modern road follows the ancient Patriarchs' Highway. As we traveled along enjoying the beautiful countryside, I remembered those who had traveled the road before me. We can safely assume that Abraham, Isaac and Jacob traversed the highway that honors their roles.

Jesus must have traveled the road on several occasions. Certainly, he surprised his disciples when "he had to go through Samaria" (John 4:4). The road most traveled by Jews was the Jericho Road and then up the Jordan River Valley, bypassing Samaria.

As we came to Sychar, we found one of the most beautiful churches in the entire country encompassing Jacob's Well. Drawing from the well, we tasted the purest water. While doing so, I could not help but remember the story of the woman at the well and Jesus. It was for her and the Samaritans that Jesus had to go through Samaria, providing living water.

On this day, I am thankful that we too took the road through Samaria. Most tourists and pilgrims shy away from Samaria, but perhaps it is time that they too should go through Samaria.

Note: why not click on the photo to enlarge it?

Meeting Friends in the Old City

2012-01-17T08:31:00.006-06:00

One can't walk far in the Old City without meeting someone you know. It gives new meaning to the phrase it's a small world after all.

On our way into the Old City by the Damascus Gate, we were stopped by one of the wait staff at the Olive Tree Hotel. Ahmed and Brenda pose for you. He is a friend to many of our staff.

After passing through the gate, we came upon a number of the participants in the recently completed World Methodist Evangelism Institute. They had come upon other good friends and were happy to pose for my photo gallery. You might recognize Eddie Fox and Maxie Dunnam and their spouses, Mary Nell and Jerry.

The Gates of Jerusalem

2012-01-16T02:07:00.005-06:00

The Damascus Gate might be the busiest of the seven gates into the Old City of Jerusalem. This newly restored gate opens to the north and true to its name in antiquity, offered travelers the way to Damascus.

Beneath the present gate lies the Roman gate into Emperor Hadrian's new city which was built after the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE. He renamed the city, Aelia Capitolina. These actions precipitated in part the revolt led by Bar Kokhba (132-136 CE).

While the crowd today was relatively small, the gate area teems with businessmen barking their wares, sidewalk-chefs grilling on the barbe, and folks hurrying home from prayers at the Dome of the Rock on Friday afternoon. Don't miss it on your trip to Jerusalem!

The Patriarchs and Beersheba

2012-01-13T11:16:00.004-06:00

Yesterday, we endured a cold and windy day in the Negev. Later in the day, there came what some call biblical rain, "from Dan to Beersheba." The desert should blossom now.

One of the sites along the way was Beersheba, the well of the oath or the well of the seven. The well located at the entrance to the site is a nice place to remember the stories of the Patriarchs. Genesis 21, 26, and 46 tell us that Abraham, Isaac and Jacob were here.

The patriarchs were nomads and came to live in "the land of milk" long before it was promised to Moses and the Hebrews. While they found life unpredictable in this environment, the patriarchs knew God to be faithful.

How good it was to walk in their footsteps! To think that Abraham, Isaac and Jacob wandered here was invigorating.

World Methodist Evangelism Institute Meets in Jerusalem

2012-01-12T06:39:00.003-06:00

Methodists from around the world have gathered in Jerusalem this week to observe the 30th Anniversary of the World Methodist Evangelism Institute's annual seminars. The theme of this seminar is Good News of Peace for All Creation. The purpose of such gatherings (seminars) is to equip pastors and laity in the practice of evangelism.

Today, I joined them on the Mount of Olives for their first introduction to the land. It was a bitterly cold day, but spirits were high. The customary photo of the group with Jerusalem in the background was that of the world in microcosm.

Later today, I will speak during the evening plenary session on The Geography of Salvation: The Fifth Gospel. What a gift it is to be invited to address the gathering. Even more, it is a joy to walk with Methodist Christians from around the world. The place sounds and looks a lot like a new Pentecost.

The Mahane Yehuda Market

2012-01-09T13:09:00.006-06:00

The market at Mahane Yehuda in Jerusalem is worth a visit if one has an extra hour in his (her) itinerary. Both open-air and covered sections of the market overwhelm all the senses.

I visited the market for the first time in all my trips to Israel. The place abounds with the fruits of the land, cafes, and all kinds of other shopping stalls. If one wishes to meet the local Jewish folks, then Mahane Yehuda is the place.

While I still prefer the souk in the Old City, this market offers a nice change of pace. What better way to spend some time strolling with friends in Jerusalem!

Three Christmases in This Land

2012-01-07T08:16:00.004-06:00

Merry Christmas from Bethlehem! Today is the Orthodox Christmas which follows the Latin Christmas by twelve days. A third Christmas is yet to be celebrated by the Armenians on January 17.

If you enjoy Christmas, as I do, then this land is the place to be.
Once upon a time, Christmas amounted to a one day celebration for me and my family. Then we discovered the twelve days of Christmas. But now my wife and I are in the land with thirty-six days of Christmas.

So let me invite you to come to the land and Christmas, not year-round, but for an extended duration. So again, Merry Christmas from Bethlehem!

This Year in Jerusalem

2012-01-04T08:25:00.003-06:00

I depart today for Israel and my eighteenth season of study there. Accompanied by my wife, we will have two months for becoming reacquainted with friends, visiting cherished holy sites and exploring new places. Yes, even after eighteen years, there are locations yet to be encountered.

My plan is to blog (almost) daily for those who wish to follow along. On some days, the blog will be more in the form of a "tweet." But for the most part, I will offer a first-hand insight into holy places and living stones.

Pray for us as we will pray for you.

This year in Jerusalem!

Happy Hannukah!

2011-12-21T07:58:00.003-06:00

Happy Hannukah (Chanukah)! The "Festival of Lights" 2011 commenced last evening at sunset and will conclude December 28. This festival commemorates the triumph of light over darkness, especially during the rule of the Seleucids over God's people.

After delivering the land from the evildoers, the faithful cleansed the Temple and rededicated it to the service of Israel's God. The return of God's light was symbolized by the lighting of the Temple's menorah. In order to accomplish this feat, the priests took a single cruse of oil and acted as if it were enough. Miraculously for eight nights, the lights burned until a "clean" supply of oil could be secured.

Worshippers have continued to celebrate that miracle by lighting a nine-branched candelabrum over successive nights. Other holy day customs include playing with the dreidel. This spinning top or toy with its Hebrew lettering reminds the faithful: "a great miracle happened there."

Holiday foods include potato pancakes and donuts. Gifts for the children are referred to as Chanukah gelt (money)

At the heart of the observances is the reading of the Hallel. Psalms 113-118 cheer the heart of the faithful now as then.

Happy Hannukah!

New Resources for Study of the Fifth Gospel

2011-12-01T08:47:00.006-06:00

I have just returned from both the ETS and SBL/AAR Annual Meetings in San Francisco. One of the joys of such gatherings is the discovery of the latest resources in biblical studies, especially the Fifth Gospel. The Fifth Gospel is the land itself. Bargil Pixner refers to it as the Geography of Salvation.

Two of my favorite authors have created new resources. They will be available for release shortly.

Gary Burge, editor of the Ancient Context, Ancient Faith series, has now added another of his own works, Jesus and the Jewish Festivals. For more information, visit zondervanacademic.com.

Lois Tverberg has followed her highly popular Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus with Walking in the Dust of Rabbi Jesus. You can go to www.OurRabbiJesus.com for more information.

Professors of Biblical Studies Gather in San Francisco

2011-11-14T07:51:00.004-06:00

Today, Brenda and I depart for San Francisco and the Annual Meetings of the Evangelical Theological Society and the Society of Biblical Literature. We will be joined by Steve and Linda Rettenmayer.

Scholars from around the world will gather for lectures, panel discussions, dialogue, and exhibits of the latest resources for study of the biblical texts. The Jerusalem Center for Biblical Studies will provide one of the exhibits.

The staff of JCBS will offer the best resource, the land as classroom. For thirty-five years, JCBS has partnered with colleges, universities, and seminaries in bringing professors and students to the lands of the Bible.

We welcome this opportunity to share the vision of the Jerusalem Center. Our hope is that many who share the teaching ministry of our Lord will discover how accessible this classroom is. With JCBS doing the "heavy-lifting" in terms of travel arrangements, housing accommodations, and the handling of details, travel-study in the land is entirely possible.

Namesakes

2011-11-06T17:23:00.005-06:00

While traveling through the Lehigh Valley recently, I began to read road signs pointing the way to Nazareth, Bethlehem, and Emmaus. These names are familiar to all of us who love the land and its people. But these towns are to be found in Pennsylvania.

These communities were settled in the 18th century by German Christians under the leadership of George Whitefield. The Moravians sought to honor holy places and names. Perhaps, the chosen names served as reminders for them of great faith events like the annunciation, the birth of Jesus, and the resurrection.

Parents often honor family and persons of influence when they name their children. Namesakes serve us well. Settlers in the Lehigh Valley chose well also.

Jesus' Teaching During Sukkot

2011-10-20T08:33:00.002-05:00

According to John 7 and 8, Jesus attended the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem. There He seized upon the pageantry and imagery of the feast to teach the crowds regarding himself and His mission.

For each of the seven days of the feast, the high priest would descend from the Temple precincts to the Pool of Siloam for water. Returning with the water in a golden pitcher, he would approach the Great Altar and pour water around its base. Psalms were sung, and prayers of thanksgiving ascended for God's gifts of the past and the coming rains.

Surely, the words of the prophets were upon the hearts of the worshippers. God is the source of "living water." At this moment, Jesus cried out: "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me, and let the one who believes in me drink. As the scripture has said, 'Out of the believer's heart shall flow rivers of living water.'" (John 7:37-38)

Jesus' claim is clear. One of the roles of the Messiah was to bring the living water.

The Feast of Tabernacles

2011-10-11T19:22:00.007-05:00

Tonight, the celebration of Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles, begins and continues through October 20. Since the conclusion of Yom Kippur, the observant Jew has prepared the outdoor tabernacle for use throughout the week.

Although little or nothing of Sukkot is celebrated by Christians, I have always felt that we miss out on a rare opportunity especially for teaching our children. What child does not love an evening outdoors or "camping out." Add to this the telling of stories from the desert wanderings of the people of Israel and you have a ready-made teaching laboratory.

Among the rituals of great interest is the blessing over the "four species:" the myrtle, the willow, the citron, and the date palm. The daily waving of four branches and a fruit accompanies the blessing:

Blessed are You, our God, Creator of time and space who enriches our lives with holiness, commanding us to dwell in the sukkah.

Such prayer and practice remembers the God who provides an abundant harvest.

The mood of the observance is one of great joy. May you know the joy of Sukkot!

Days of Awe Climax with Yom Kippur

2011-10-07T14:59:00.005-05:00

The observance of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, begins this evening. This day in the Jewish calendar is the most solemn. The day's origin lies deep in Israel's desert experience with the Golden Calf. The idolatrous people of God incurred God's judgment but later received God's forgiveness.

While remembering Israel's great sin, worshippers repent of their sin before the judgment of God is sealed. Therefore, the most sober day becomes joyful as well. God forgives our sin. The new year can now be whole and happy for the repentant sinner.

The ritual practices of this day include: the reading of the book of Jonah in its entirety, fasting from drink and bathing for twenty-five hours, and attending Kol Nidrei services at the synagogue. When the fast is broken, there is the eating of honey cake and a meal on the evening after (Yom Tov or "festival").

Happy New Year!

2011-09-28T07:57:00.005-05:00

Yes, a new year begins this evening for our Jewish neighbors. As Christians, we do not have a corresponding holiday until January 1, but we wish them a happy new year. It's 5772!

Rosh Hashana means "Head of the Year" and commemorates the creation of Adam and Eve. While the new year celebrations continue for two days, Rosh Hashana commences the ten days leading up to Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

The new year will be ushered in by blasts of the shofar. The ram's horn plays a prominent role across the holiday announcing the coronation of God as King and calling the descendants of Adam and Eve to action.

Repentance is the dominant theme of Rosh Hashanah. The faithful will find an available body of water and ask God to cast their sin into the sea.

As with all holidays, food is prominent and symbolic. Apples and bread are dipped in honey and eaten to the wishes and prayers for a "sweet" year.

May you be inscribed and sealed for a good year!

A River Makes Glad the City of God

2011-09-19T10:27:00.005-05:00

Psalm 46, read by President Obama on 9/11, has remained with me over the weekend. One particular image has held me: "a river whose streams make glad the city of God." The accompanying photo by Todd Bolen is of the Dan River in the north of Israel. There is no river flowing through Jerusalem.

For the psalmist, "river" is a metaphor for the blessings of God everyday and especially in difficult times. But not only for the psalmist, all writers of scripture find in "water" the very activity of God. God does and more what water does. Water is lifegiving, especially in this land.

The water source in Jerusalem is the Gihon Springs, not a river. The gracious proclamation of the psalmist is that God was and is refuge, strength and refreshment to Jerusalem. God is in the midst of her.

Remembering 9/11

2011-09-15T14:06:00.004-05:00

This nation's remembrance of 9/11 was deeply moving and profoundly sobering. The images from that day in 2001 flooded our television screens. The sounds and voices heard that day reverberated once again across the airways.

I take away two things from my experience of this tenth anniversary. First, the question of most interest to me was not: where were you on 9/11? Rather it is: where are you today? While we must not forget, we must not remain there. Creativity in response is demanded.

Second, I will long remember the President of the United States, Barack Obama, reading Psalm 46. Across this entire week, I have noticed that Yahoo has listed the psalm in its "trending" space. Psalm 46 indeed provides comfort to those who have suffered violently. May we find hope in the psalm's meaning and God in the midst of us!

Recent Discoveries in Jerusalem Give Meaning to Observance of Tish B'Av

2011-08-10T16:40:00.008-05:00

Tisha B'Av has come and gone for another year! However, the somewhat "lightly observed" holy day received new attention and perhaps meaning this year as a result of several new archaeological finds in recent days.

First came the discovery of the ancient street leading from the Pool of Siloam up to the Upper City. Then there was the revealing of the drainage tunnel under the street for siphoning water and sewage away from the Holy Mount. Now, there are more discoveries shedding light on the destruction of the Temple and life in Jerusalem in 70 CE.

The Israel Antiquities Authority has announced the discovery of a Roman sword and a stone carving of the menorah in the drainage tunnel. These findings give credence to the judgment of scholars that residents of the city found refuge here in 70 as the Romans advanced on the Temple.

For photos of the sword and stone depiction and the detailed announcement, you can click on: http://www.antiquities.org.il/about_eng.asp?Modul_id=14

Tisha B'Av Begins This Evening

2011-08-08T13:45:00.005-05:00

Tisha B'Av, perhaps the saddest observance in Judaism, begins at sundown today. Hebrew for the ninth day of the month of Av, the day is remembered for the loss of Jerusalem's Temple, not once but twice. The first destruction came at the hands of the Babylonians, while the second occurred in 70 C. E. as a result of Rome's retaliation against the Jewish people. Both attacks came on the same day.

Tonight, restaurants will close in Jerusalem as the twenty-five hour fast begins. In synagogues and homes, the books of Lamentations and Job will be read. The faithful will deny themselves baths, oil treatments, the wearing of leather shoes, even the satisfaction of a husband's desire for his wife.

The loss remembered on Tisha B'Av was catastrophic. And yet, the God of hope continued to be in the midst of God's people. God's faithful found ways to worship yet. The lesson of this holiday remains a vital one for us in a time of profound losses.

Shavout and Pentecost

2011-06-07T14:01:00.003-05:00

At sunset today, the celebration of Shavuot begins. Shavuot is one the three pilgrim festivals mandated by the scriptures. The Festival of Weeks, as it is also called, follows the observance of Passover by fifty days.

The gifts of God remembered in the celebrations of Shavuot are Torah and the wheat harvest. Christians remember as well the gift of the Holy Spirit.

In ancient times as well as today, the mood of the worshipper was one of extreme joy. Meals were festive whenever possible. Torah study lasted through the night. The Book of Ruth is still read for it's themes which parallel the interpretation given the holiday.

Christians will gather on Sunday (June 12) to observe Pentecost, the name given to Shavuot by Hellenistic Jews. As we gather in our varied settings, may our God draw near as God did on Mount Sinai and in ancient Jerusalem. May we worship God with glad and generous hearts.

Continuing on the Road to Emmaus

2011-05-11T15:19:00.006-05:00

As Jesus joined the two disciples, they did not know that it was Jesus. How could that be? They had heard him teach, shared meals with him and walked with him. What so held their minds and hearts that they did not recognize Jesus?

Grief can be consuming, can it not? They put it in their own words: "we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel." All that they had longed for and found in Jesus they thought had been lost.

Painstakingly, Jesus taught from the scriptures all things concerning himself and the events which had taken place in Jerusalem. Yet, the disciples were slow to recognize Jesus. Only in the familiar act of breaking "daily bread" did they see that it was Jesus.

Upon recognition, the two disciples began the journey back to Jerusalem. The others must know what they knew. "The one to redeem Israel" lives.

The Road to Emmaus - Luke 24:13-35

2011-05-06T12:58:00.010-05:00

The appearance of Jesus to two disciples walking along the road to Emmaus is perhaps the richest in terms of details and meanings. Therefore, let's unpack this marvelous story over several blogs.

First, we should note that the precise location of Emmaus remains a matter for debate. There are at least three possible sites: Emmaus-Nicopolis, Al-Qubeibeh, and Abu Ghosh. As we often say in the land, either site is a "good place" to remember this grand story.

Location, however, is not the only detail that we are lacking. Only one disciple is named, Cleopas. One explanation is that the unnamed person was Cleopas' wife. How meaningful this possibility is given the role of women in the first century. Of course, the prominence of women in the Jesus Movement had already been established when Mary Magdalene became the "first witness" to the Risen Lord.

Also, expositors have long suggested that the intention of the gospel writer was to invite subsequent readers to slip into the sandals of the "nameless one." If this is true, I must say that this reader over the years has found the shoes fit well. I have longed to walk the Emmaus Road.

Behind Locked Doors - John 20:19-23

2011-05-03T08:57:00.005-05:00

We can't be sure where the disciples gathered on Easter evening. When last we heard, all except Peter and John had fled into the night. One interpreter has suggested that they found refuge in the cemetery on the Mount of Olives. Observant Jewish leaders would never have defiled themselves prior to the Passover by pursuing them there.

On the third day, the ten managed to assemble and wait. What we do know is that wherever they gathered, "the doors of the house...were locked for fear of the Jews." While the news of the women gave them a modicum of hope, they were still in the grip of the harsh reality of Good Friday.

Suddenly despite the locked doors, Jesus stood in their midst. He pronounced the traditional Jewish greeting, "Shalom!" Three times he confirmed the message that dispelled their fear. "Peace be with you."

Glorious Easter continues to confront modern disciples of Jesus wherever we lock ourselves away. Easter's gifts from the risen Lord are peace, purpose and power.

The First Witness - John 20:1-10

2011-04-29T21:16:00.010-05:00

Mary Magdalene was accompanied by other women to the tomb that first Easter. They had returned to finish the preparations of the body for burial. Thus, the question as to who would roll the stone away? Certainly, the women constituted a burial party and not seekers of a resurrected Lord.

Finding the stone rolled away, Mary Magdalene ran to tell Simon Peter and John. The three of them returned to the tomb to investigate. Still baffled and confused, the men returned to their hiding place.

Only Mary Magdalene remained at the open tomb. As she wept uncontrollably, Jesus appeared to Mary. She became, in the words of the hymn, "the first one." Mary Magdalene was the first witness to the risen Lord. The gospel writers never hesitated in their identification and proclamation of Mary as the first. All four gospels name Mary at the first witness to the resurrection.

The Great Fifty Days

2011-04-26T14:05:00.004-05:00

Dietrich Bonhoeffer said it for so many of us: "I have a special affection for the days after Easter." The great fifty days are just that. The appearances of Jesus following His resurrection define the Christian faith and hope.

Among the sites in the land associated with an appearance of the risen Lord to His disciples is the Church of the Primacy located on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. The place holds special meaning for me.

The Mensa Christi, as it is also known, was where Jesus met seven of his disciples fishing. They had returned to their old ways of living. The return to Galilee by the disciples constituted a crisis for Jesus and the movement. Therefore, he confronted them, especially Simon Peter, restored them to fellowship, and recalled them to the ministry of fishing for men. He sent them forth again to feed His sheep.

In these days following Easter, may we too experience reconciliation and restoration. Let us rise renewed for this ministry!

Joyous Easter Greetings!

2011-04-24T12:54:00.004-05:00

What begin as a whisper in Jerusalem that first Easter continues today as a triumphant shout: He is risen! He is risen indeed! The most glorious news ever is our greeting to you this glad Easter Day.

The Staff of the Jerusalem Center for Biblical Studies - Willis Britt, Nadia Charchyan, Steve Rettenmayer, Robert Fannin, and Jim Ridgway

Holy Saturday

2011-04-23T20:00:00.003-05:00

Following the burial of Jesus, the disciples of Jesus either scattered or gathered behind locked doors. We can only speculate as to their activities, but those would have been limited since it was the sabbath. The usual sabbath duties would have held little interest for them.

We can be more confident regarding their state of mind and mood. Questions gripped them. "How could they?" was at the forefront of their thoughts. The brutal execution of a good and just man bewilders us still today.

"Lord, could we?" This kind of honest soul-searching arose during the Lord's Supper. It could have continued that Saturday.

On this Holy Saturday, let us find meaningful activity in anticipation of glad Easter Day. One such practice for us might be like-minded soul-searching. "Lord, is it I?

Good Friday

2011-04-22T14:36:00.003-05:00

"Crucified, dead, and buried" is the summary of the events of Good Friday found in most Christian creeds. Jesus of Nazareth experienced the most brutal and humiliating of executions that day long ago. He was buried in a borrowed tomb. As the stone was rolled in place to seal the tomb, the dominant thought of the few remaining disciples must have been "hate and fear win again." Love and hope were buried that day as well.

Yet we call this day Good (God's) Friday. Such an affirmation came through the lens and experience of subsequent events. God raised Jesus from the dead. The servant life of Jesus was vindicated. Love triumphed over hate and fear! Hope is stronger than death!

Maundy Thursday

2011-04-21T16:47:00.003-05:00

"A man carrying a jar of water" is how Jesus identified the location of the final meal. But would that scene be so unusual as to assist the disciples in preparing for the Passover? In fact, it would be out of the ordinary. In the first century, men did not carry water.

Scholars in the land say this bit of detail from the gospels may identify for us the location of the Lord's Supper as well. Only male priests would carry water. Since temple priests can be ruled out as possibly cooperating with Jesus and the disciples that late in the last week, the man in question likely was an Essene priest.

Father Bargil Pixner identified what he called the Essene Gate to Jerusalem. The Essene Monastery would surely have been nearby on Mount Zion. The site today is in close proximity to the traditional Upper Room (Crusader).

Could it be that Jesus drew upon the hospitality of the Essenes for his final meal with the disciples? If so, the Essenes were the lone supporters of Jesus among the major players in Jerusalem as the ministry of Jesus drew to a close.

Retreat to Ein Gedi

2010-12-27T11:16:00.005-06:00

Yesterday, we left bustling Jerusalem for the quiet of the Dead Sea. Ein Gedi stands in stark contrast to the sea with its springs, waterfalls, date palms and varied flora. The kibbutz offers itself as the place in the land for a wellness retreat.

After a day and one-half of rest, walks and reading, we can truly say that the marketing of the kibbutz is not overstated. We feel relaxed and renewed after a busy holiday season and hectic travel schedule.

Please consider carving out at least a day and night at Ein Gedi in your next travel/study program to the land. You will be equally rewarded.

Christmas in Bethlehem

2010-12-25T02:38:00.004-06:00

Last evening, I celebrated my first Christmas in Bethlehem with my wife, good friends, and the thousands who came. Manger Square was a feast for the senses: dazzling lights, sounds as at a rock concert, at times the uncomfortable jostling of the crowd, and the smells of coffee, falafel, and cigarettes. "Awesome" is the descriptive word of the young, and youth made up most of the crowd.

As we entered St. Catherine's Church, the contrast was welcomed. The crowds waited there in rather quiet anticipation. At 10:30 p. m. the liturgy celebrated the actions of St. Francis who more than anyone provided the world with its most common image of Christmas, the creche. Then the processional began for the Midnight Mass. I was reminded of what our Roman Catholic friends do best, liturgy and pageantry. Similarly, I felt as in Manger Square the awe of Christmas!

Before departing Bethlehem, we waited outside the church for the arrival of the Palestinian President, Abu Mazen. He was late for the Christmas Mass and his witness of solidarity with the local and worldwide Christian community. Finally, he arrived recognizing the crowd with vigorous waves.

Christmas in Bethlehem! The memory will linger and inform future Christmases in other places and times for me. "Christ the Savior is born!"

Christmas Message from Jerusalem's Religious Leaders

2010-12-20T01:08:00.002-06:00

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will among all people!" (Luke 2:14)
We, the Heads of the Churches of Jerusalem, share with you in praising God for the birth of the holy child on a cold night in Bethlehem so long ago. We praise God for the faithful examples of the Blessed Virgin Mary and of Joseph. We praise God for the shepherds who were first to share the Good News of the Savior's birth. We praise God for the witness of all the heavenly host in their joyous proclamation of God's desire for peace on earth that good will among all people will prevail against the darkness of sin.

Peace continues to elude the world our Lord was born to save. Too many people live under the threat of violence and political persecution. We, the Heads of Churches of Jerusalem, see the role of the Church to be one of encouraging all people to build bridges of understanding and not walls of separation. We condemn violence in any form. Violence has not and can never be accepted as the way to bring about a just and lasting peace between peoples.
We believe that hope for peace and reconciliation requires our active participation as people of faith.

For hope to remain alive in the hearts of the faithful, we must take an active role in bringing hope for peace into reality. To this end, we want to inform you that the Heads of Churches take a serious role in building bridges of peace and reconciliation through our participation in the Council of Religious Institutions of the Holy Land.

This Council brings together Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders to discuss issues of shared concern for our people here and for mutual understanding around the world. We strongly believe that "on earth peace, good will among all people " starts with developing relationships built on mutual respect and understanding. We believe this Council's experience of cooperation and communication is an encouraging example to our people and to the world that in building bridges, God's peace is possible.

Believing, with Mary, that "with God nothing will be impossible" (Luke 1:37) we proclaim with the heavenly host this Christmas, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will among all people," praising God as we hope for the future of all of God's people.
May God bless the celebration of the Savior's birth this Christmas season. May God bless every effort for peace and may the one and living God: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit bless, preserve and keep you, now and always. Amen.
+Patriarch Theophilos III, Greek Orthodox Patriarchate +Patriarch Fouad Twal, Latin Patriarchate +Patriarch Torkom II Manoogian, Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Patriarchate +Fr. Pierbattista Pizzaballa, ofm, Custos of the Holy Land +Archbishop Anba Abraham, Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate, Jerusalem +Archbishop Swerios Malki Murad, Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate +Archbishop Joseph-Jules Zerey, Greek-Melkite-Catholic Patriarchate +Archbishop Abouna Matthias, Ethiopian Orthodox Patriarchate +Archbishop Paul Sayyah, Maronite Patriarchal Exarchate +Bishop Suheil Dawani, Episcopal Church of Jerusalem and the Middle East +Bishop Munib Younan, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land +Bishop Pierre Malki, Syrian Catholic Patriarchal Exarchate+Fr. Rafael Minassian, Armenian Catholic Patriarchal Exarchate

The Feast of Tabernacles

2010-09-23T08:58:00.006-05:00

Tonight, the celebration of Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles, begins and continues through October 1. Since the conclusion of Yom Kippur, the observant Jew has prepared the outdoor tabernacle for use throughout the week. Among Christians, little to nothing is done to remember the experiences of the people of God in their desert wanderings.

I personally have always felt that this season held special promise for children and families whether Jew or Christian. What child does not love an evening outdoors or "camping out." Add to this the many lessons to be learned from the scriptures and the rituals and you have a ready-made teaching laboratory.

Among the rituals of great interest is the blessing over the "four species:" the myrtle, the willow, the citron, and the date palm. The daily waving of the four branches and fruit is accompanied by the blessing:

Blessed are You, our God, Creator of time and space, who enriches our lives
with holiness, commanding us to dwell in the sukkah.

Such a practice remembers the God who provides an abundant harvest.

The mood of the observance is one of joy. During the Second Temple period, there was dance with music and song as water was drawn for use in the Temple and to accompany the prayers for rain. Jesus used the occasion to proclaim: "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and let the one who believes in me drink" (John 7:37-38).

Have a joyous Sukkot!

Yom Kippur

2010-09-19T11:09:00.010-05:00

The observance of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement or the Day of Awe, began on Friday evening. This day in the Jewish calendar is the most solemn. The day's origin lies deep in Israel's desert experience with the Golden Calf. The idolatrous people of God incurred God's judgment but received his forgiveness.

While the worshipper remembers Israel's great sin, he repents of his sin before the judgment of God is sealed. Therefore, the most sober day becomes joyful as well. God forgives our sin. The new year can now be whole and happy for the repentant sinner.

The ritual practices of this day include: the reading of the book of Jonah in its entirety, fasting from drink and bathing, and attending Kol Nidrei services at the synagogue. When the fast is broken, there is the eating of honey cake and a meal on the evening after (Yom Tov or "festival").

Following the festivities, attention is turned to the next holiday, Sukkot, which is observed for seven days beginning September 23. Sukkot is the Feast of Tabernacles.

Happy New Year!

2010-09-14T08:08:00.011-05:00

Let us depart once again from our Bible study and consider what is happening throughout the land and the Diaspora for our Jewish friends. On the evening of September 9, they celebrated Rosh Hashanah, the beginning of the Jewish New Year. The celebration continued for two days.

The nature of this observance is somber. According to Jewish belief, the entire world passes before the Lord for judgment. Therefore, the call is for soul-searching and repentance.

The third day is given to the holiday prayer. For the remaining days until Yom Kippur (there are ten days between Rosh Hashanah and the Day of Atonement), the faithful remain in a penitent mood.

Jesus Has Power over Demons

2010-08-17T22:12:00.006-05:00

John Killenger captures Mark's purpose in the writing of his good news about Jesus. According to Mark, Jesus has power over demons, disease and death. Jesus' first mighty act is recorded in Mark 1:21-28 and takes place in the synagogue at Capernaum.

As Jesus was teaching, a man "who was possessed by an evil spirit," cried out at Jesus' intrusion into his territory. It is intriguing that the man possessed considered the house of God as his realm. Then again, the kingdom of God was breaking in in the ministry of Jesus. The power of God is greater than that of the principalities and powers of this world. Yes, Jesus of Nazareth embodied that power and came to destroy and transform these forces.

Equally as intriguing is the response of the worshippers present on the sabbath. They were all amazed, and there is no adverse reaction because of this mighty work on the sabbath. Such a response can be attributed to the fact that the Pharisees of Capernaum were Hillelian. To be able to do good on the sabbath and not do is a violation of the law. Other schools would and did beg to differ.

As a result, "news about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee."

Jesus Calls His First Disciples

2010-08-14T21:33:00.013-05:00

Passing along beside the Sea of Galilee, Jesus finds and calls his first disciples. According to Mark 1:16-20, Peter, Andrew, James and John are fishing and mending nets. The four men are partners in fishing the coves around the seven springs known as Tabgha. The custom of the day was to pay for the rights to certain fishing spots.

Two rather amazing features of this story appear to be the leaving of kin to follow an itinerant rabbi and the fact that they immediately followed him. However, the Gospel of John (1:35-42) tells us of a prior meeting of Jesus and Simon and Andrew. The meeting took place on the other side of the sea in the presence of John the Baptizer. With this being the case, the "immediacy" of their response seems less radical. Rather Jesus has found them and declared that the time had come.

Jerusalem Center groups which visit the traditional site of the call of the first disciples can also experience their "recalling" by Jesus (John 21:1-17). Seven of his disciples have returned to their old vocation. At stake is the Jesus movement. Jesus forgives Peter and the others for their desertion and recalls them to fishing for men.

The Beginning of Ramadan

2010-08-12T21:08:00.009-05:00

Occasionally, let's take a break from our Bible study to consider what's transpiring in the land. Last evening, Muslims began their observance of Ramadan. This season of fasting will continue for one month until September 10. The fast is complete from sunrise to sunset, no food, drink, smoking, or sexual relations. Come evening, the faithful break the fast with the eating of a single date and the Iftar (a meal).

Fasting, as in most religions, serves to teach patience and humility, and the practice results hopefully in purification. For Islam, fasting is one of the five pillars of the faith. The month of fasting is finally broken with the celebration of the "festival," Eid al-Fitr.

In addition to fasting, the observant Muslim is expected to pray, read or recite the Qu'ran, and feed the poor. As for the latter, free meals are served in designated public places.

The Passing of the Mantle

2010-08-09T15:10:00.008-05:00

Previously, we surmised that Jesus remained in close contact with John the Baptizer following his baptism. He may have continued his fellowship with John and his followers for one year. Jesus eventually returned home and waited to begin his ministry.

According to Mark 1:14-15, John's arrest served as the impetus for the launching of Jesus' ministry. "Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God and saying, 'The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent and believe in the good news.'"

John had delivered his final proclamation. He had told the truth about Herod Antipas one time too many. Off to Machaerus, he was sent. "The time is fulfilled..."

Now, Jesus stepped on the stage called Galilee. The mantle of leadership had been passed on, much like when Elisha took up the mantle of Elijah (II Kings 2). The one who must decrease had given way to the One who was to come. "The kingdom of God has come near..."

The ministry of Jesus officially began with the passing of John from the scene. The prophet of God had faithfully prepared the way forward.

Baptism Under Fire

2010-08-06T16:27:00.013-05:00

According to Mark 1:12-13, Jesus was immediately driven out into the Wilderness after his baptism. You might say that here his baptism came under fire from Satan. For forty days, Jesus was tempted as to the proper use of his power and the understanding of his mission as Messiah. Steadfastly, Jesus resisted the tests of Satan. At the completion of his time in the Wilderness, he possibly returned to keep company with John the Baptizer.

The Wilderness of Jesus' experience is southeast of Jerusalem toward the Dead Sea. The barren, chalky hills stand in stark contrast to other regions of the land. The Wilderness is an inhospitable place, home only to wild animals, shepherds and demons. The region is considered as such and thus capitalized as a proper name.

Groups from the Jerusalem Center choose to travel a portion of the Old Roman Road to Jericho and encounter the Wilderness near the Wadi Kelt. In other times, we often walked the wadi into New Testament Jericho. Such an experience with the region puts the student in touch with some of what Jesus suffered. Alone except for the angels and hungry, Jesus set the course for his ministry and sounded the initial blast of defeat for the malevolent powers of this world.

The Beginning of the Good News of Jesus Christ: Baptism

2010-08-03T15:14:00.000-05:00

"The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ" (Mark 1:1) is the account of his baptism by John. Although John was baptizing at various sites, Jesus left Nazareth sometime in 27-28 CE and made his way to the Jordan River nearest Jericho and the Wilderness to be baptized. In submitting to the baptism of John, Jesus was affirming both the ministry and message of his cousin, John. John was the forerunner of the Messiah, the One who would baptize with fire rather than water. His message was one of repentance in preparation for the in-breaking of the kingdom of God.

At his baptism, Jesus was confirmed as God's Son when the heavens opened and the dove descended. More importantly, the voice of the heavenly Father announced that Jesus was the Son in whom He was well pleased.

Until recently, pilgrims and students have had only two options for their own baptisms in the Jordan. While Kibbutz Kinneret, on the southwestern corner of the Sea of Galilee, has worked diligently to improve this site (see photo above), the Yardenit (little Jordan) is not authentic and much too commerical. The other site, Bethany Beyond the Jordan, stands a better chance at authenticity but requires a visa to cross the border into the country of Jordan.

The good news is that the faithful can now access this site year-round from the Israeli side of the border at Qasr al-Yahud. No prior arrangements are necessary for your visit. The site is located some six miles from Jericho and is almost certainly in the vicinity where John was baptizing.

Come and Study with Us!

2010-08-01T16:43:00.003-05:00

Almost five months have passed since I returned from my annual travel/study in the Holy Land. As is often the case, I am becoming restless to return. I miss my friends, the sights and sounds, and my walks through the land.

Nevertheless, it is much too early to become homesick. I will not depart for another five months. Such longing would be a waste of my days in a land equally as dear to my heart. So I will seek to live fully in the here and now.

One thing that I can do is to journey there through my Bible study over the next five months. For this journey of mind and heart, I am choosing the Gospel of Mark. When I am in the land teaching, I employ Mark's itinerary traveling through the Galilee and thrill in his account of the stories of Jesus. Bargil Pixner was the first to suggest this fruitful use of Mark as one walks the Galilee

Let me extend the invitation for you to join me in this journey! Come and study with us! My prayer is that the One who walked long ago these ancient paths will meet us anew, walk with us and teach us.

Pentecost and Shavout

2010-05-20T16:43:00.003-05:00

On Tuesday and Wednesday (May 19-20), Jews celebrated Shavout. This Sunday (May 23), Christians will join in the celebration of Pentecost. This shared feast is also known as the festival of First Fruits.

Shavout marks the end of Passover season for the Jew. A sacrifice of grain is offered in gratitude for the spring harvest. According to the Talmud, the holiday is associated with the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai.

Pentecost brings to a close the fifty days of Easter for the Christian and celebrates the birth of the Church. According to the Acts of the Apostles, God's gift to the infant Church was the Holy Spirit.

For the faithful, the Book of Ruth, the Song of Songs, and the Ten Commandments are to be read during this festival. Further celebrations are a sensual delight with challa in the shape of a ladder, cheese blintzes, and much greenery and blazing red decor. Blessings this Pentecost! "Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!"

Roll Jordan, Roll?

2010-05-03T10:16:00.004-05:00

My first experience of the Jordan River was like that of so many other tourists. "Where? Where is it? That's the Jordan River!"

Disappointment hardly describes the reaction. After all, I grew up along the mighty Mississippi River. That's a river!

After sixteen visits to the land and to the banks of the Jordan River, I now come away with a profound appreciation of the lifegiving contribution of the Jordan. I better understand how one could sing "Roll, Jordan, roll!" Such words are more a prayer for God's gift of water to a "dry and weary" land.

Therefore, I joined in grave concern with others this week upon reading the story that the Jordan River could dry up within the year:

"Unless urgent action is taken, large sections of the Lower Jordan River, which runs from Lake Kinneret to the Dead Sea, will dry out next year, according to a study released on Sunday by EcoPeace/Friends of the Earth Middle East (FoEME).The NGO ran tests over a year to determine how much water would be needed to rehabilitate the river and damage had been caused by the lack of water in it. Israel, Jordan and Syria divert 98 percent of the flow for their respective country’s use."

How can this be?

And yet we know how. Prolonged drought, diversion of the waters of the Jordan, and politics have brought us to this critical point.

Please join in singing, or rather praying: "Roll, Jordan, roll!" May the powers that be join minds and hearts in resolving the issues.

To read the entire article, go to the Jerusalem Post at http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=174550

The Land and Preaching: The Resurrection

2010-03-29T20:09:00.010-05:00

The Book: "Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him." Then Peter and the other disciple set out and went toward the tomb. The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there and the cloth that had been on Jesus' head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not understand the scripture, that he must rise from the dead. Then the disciples returned to their homes." - John 20:1-10

The Land: Two locations contend for the hearts of the faithful as the site of the tomb of Jesus, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Garden Tomb. While the Garden Tomb is a wonderful place to pray and remember the Easter story, most scholars confer on the church the mark of authenticity.

Given the status and role of women in the first century, the identification by John of Mary Magdalene as the first witness to the resurrection is certainly reckless if not true. In fact, other women (see John 20:2) accompanied Mary Magdalene that first Easter and joined her as the first witnesses. While Mary is the first to encounter the risen Jesus, all of the women discover the first evidence of the resurrection, an empty tomb and grave clothes that are no longer needed.

The Lessons for Preaching: Christian apologists offer many causes for belief in the resurrection of Jesus. Among them are the transformation of the disciples, their newfound boldness, and 2,000 years of continuous history of the Jesus' movement.

However, the empty tomb was the evidence for resurrection trumpeted by the gospel writer. Seven times John references the tomb, the empty tomb. While the empty tomb has been explained away, the fact of the matter is that no body was ever produced.

Yes, there is much to proclaim as confirmation of the Easter hope grounded in resurrection, but

the earliest proclamation of the first witnesses was that the tomb was empty. The tomb was empty. The Lord is risen!

The Land and Preaching: The Mount of Olives

2010-03-20T20:44:00.010-05:00

The Book: When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples saying, "Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here." ...after throwing their cloaks on the colt, they sat Jesus on it. As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road...the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, saying, "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!" - Luke 19:29-38a

The Land: Departing Galilee for Jerusalem and the celebration of Passover, Jesus journeyed through the Jordan River Valley, tarried in Jericho, and climbed the final miles through the Wadi Qelt via an ancient road. The road empties onto the Mount of Olives near Bethphage and Bethany.

With the Holy City and the Temple in sight, Jesus sends two disciples for transportation. In light of the fact that Jesus and his disciples have walked from Galilee, the request for a donkey might seem odd. Nevertheless, the two men obeyed his command, and history and biblical interpretation have filled in the blanks for the faithful across the centuries.

In the tradition of the prophets, Jesus acts out his message for the residents of Jerusalem. The parabolic action of such an humble entrance, that of "riding a donkey," fulfills scripture (Zechariah 9:9) and corrects a rather common understanding of the messiah. Jesus enters Jerusalem, not as a conquering warrior, but as God's servant-king. Jesus' choice of such transportation parallels that of King Solomon's approach to his coronation.

In addition, the choice of the Mount of Olives and especially Bethphage as the point of departure for the processional to Jerusalem embodies the message Jesus intends. According to the rabbis, the messiah will come from the clouds if God's people are prepared. If they are not ready, the messiah will come from the city limits riding on a donkey. Bethphage was the city limits in Jesus' day.

Without saying a word, Jesus' claim and message were clear to the religious community. Jesus offered himself as messiah, albeit a different one. Later when he pauses before the city, his tears are a foreshadowing of the response of Jerusalem's leaders. They did not know the things that make for peace.

Lesson for Preaching: The first decision for the pastor in terms of preparing to preach this coming Sunday is whether to observe Palm Sunday or Passion Sunday. Here I have offered insight from the land for celebrating Palm Sunday.

A second decision will be sorting through all the possibilities at hand for the theme and the thrust of the Palm Sunday sermon. The temptation for the preacher is to make seven points once each, rather than stating the main point seven times.

The Land and Preaching: John 12:1-8

2010-03-14T23:44:00.008-05:00

The Book: "Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, the home of Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. There they gave a dinner for him. Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at the table with him. Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus' feet, and wiped them with her hair...But Judas Iscariot...said, "Why...?" Jesus said, "Leave her alone. She bought it...for the day of my burial." - John 12:1-8

The Land: Bethany was a favorite destination for Jesus. In addition to Mary, Martha and Lazarus, it was home to Simon the leper and several prominent Pharisees. For this reason and its close proximity to Jerusalem, Jesus chose Bethany as his base of operations for the week
before Passover.

In this week's lectionary text, Passover was yet six days away. Jesus' friends had prepared dinner for him. True to what we know about the two sisters, Martha served the gathering and Mary lovingly anointed Jesus' feet. Despite the protest by Judas as to the wastefulness of the act, Jesus defended Mary, accepted her act as preparation for his death and burial, and in doing so, fulfilled messianic expectations.

According to Mark's gospel, Judas departed immediately and returned to Jerusalem. Judas
sought out the chief priests, recounted the events in Bethany, and committed to the act of betrayal. Delighted, the chief priests now had the solution to their problem.

The Preaching: Several lessons from the land can inform and enrich preaching on this text. The obvious lesson is that we all need "our Bethany" where friends meet, dine and find sanctuary. Like Jesus, we too must have our places of retreat and rest.

Equally, we find in Mary (named in John's gospel but anonymous in Mark) a lesson in discipleship. Both Mary's comprehension of the moment and her extravagant generosity stand in stark contrast to Judas' disillusionment with Jesus and his greed. While Judas is still sadly remembered with disdain, Mary is the disciple to be praised. May the fragrance of her sacrifice fill church sanctuaries around the world this coming Sunday!

"The Pit" at St. Peter's in Gallicantu

2010-03-12T01:32:00.008-06:00

The Book - "I am counted among those who go down to the Pit; I am like those who have no help...You have put me in the depths of the Pit, in the regions dark and deep." - Psalm 88:4-6

The Land - In the depths of the church of St. Peter's in Gallicantu, there is "the Pit." It is not just any pit, but the Pit where tradition holds that Jesus was held after his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane.

The modern church is built over the remains of an earlier Byzantine structure. The focal point of the first church is what appears to be a holding pit for the worst of criminals. Since the pit opening was marked by crosses, the Byzantines surmised that this site could have been where the high priest held Jesus on holy Thursday evening for trial. Early Christians often venerated sites associated with gospel events by marking them with crosses.

The courtyard of the church remembers the confrontation of Simon Peter with the women servants of the High Priest. In fear and cowardice, the protesting disciple fulfilled Jesus' prophecy of a three-fold denial.

Descending into the pit is quite an emotional experience for even the least sentimental of us. Certainly, this site bears consideration in the traditional sense. While one cannot assure the authenticity of the site, it can be as is often said: "this site is a good place to remember the story of Jesus' arrest, trial, betrayal, and dark night of the soul."

The Lesson - The Book of Psalms serves a two-fold purpose for the student or worshipper. A psalm allows one to vent the deepest of emotions, while giving expression to the voice of God. In Psalm 88, the psalmist is in the depths of despondency. He senses death is near, and he has no one to help him. His companions have shunned him, and God's absence has compounded his desperate estate.

While praying this psalm, the reader can easily see why it has been associated with Jesus. As any faithful Jew, Jesus memorized the scriptures. In other settings, Jesus prayed the psalms. On the night that he was betrayed by Judas and denied by Simon Peter, Jesus might have turned to a number of psalms for comfort and expression of all his feelings in addition to Psalm 88.

Who among us has not found similar comfort from praying this psalm? While few of us will experience "the Pit" as Jesus, we who have known the depths of abandonment, darkness, and impending death yet find hope in God's Word and God's faithfulness.

The Land and Preaching: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

2010-03-10T06:20:00.011-06:00

The Book: And the Pharisees and scribes were grumbling and saying, "This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them." ...Then Jesus said, "There was a man who had two sons..." Then the father said, "Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found." - Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

Land: Since Luke 15 contains three parables, it might seem odd to write about "the land" as it impacts our reading and understanding of this text. But let us remember that the land is more than country; it is climate, custom and culture as well. The parables here, as all parables, are loaded with the stuff of life.

One interesting bit of conjecture as to the location for the telling of this parable grows out of the grumbling of the Pharisees and scribes about Jesus' choice of dining companions. Was Jesus dining in the home of Matthew at Capernaum? There is certainly the backdrop of the "other side" for the telling of a story about a young man who goes to a far (Gentile) country and resorts to feeding swine. That country was just across the Sea of Galilee from Capernaum.

Special cultural aspects of this parable that might enrich preaching this Sunday are: the unthinkable request of the younger son for his share of the inheritance before the father's death; the younger son's desperate condition; his improbable choice of an occupation; the unexpected welcome of the father; the lavish gifts of a robe, a ring, sandals, and the fatted calf; the scorn of the elder son for his father and brother; the refusal to welcome his brother and join the party; the release of the elder's pent-up anger toward his father; and the pleading of the loving father for like-minded welcome, forgiveness, and celebration.

Given the culture of the day, the chances of this kind of outcome are small. A young, rebellious son would be stoned; an insolent, elder son would be equally shamed and shunned.

Lesson for Preaching: The thrust of this familiar parable is centered on the behavior of the father. While attention is often focused on the younger son, there are two sons that are equally lost in their relationship to their father. Yet, it is with neither of the sons that the lesson of the parable rests. The father is loving and forgiving with the sons. The challenge is for the sons to be loving and forgiving as the father. Certainly, this is the call of Jesus to the religious folk of his day. In relation to sinners, they are expected to be like God the Father in welcoming, loving, and forgiving.

The Rabbi's Teaching Steps

2010-03-06T01:52:00.005-06:00

The Book - "Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. For the Lord is good, his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithful-ness to all generations." - Psalm 100:4-5*

The Land - One of the most active excavations in the environs of Jerusalem in the last few years has been on the southern end of the Temple Mount. Among the revelations there is what is commonly called the "rabbis' teaching steps." These expansive steps served pilgrims who approached the Temple for worship from the south. The steps helped the worshippers access the Huldah Gates. Near them stood the ritual baths which rendered them clean for worship.

The steps received its name as rabbis finished their teaching in the porticos and needed a place to proclaim a message from God without interruption. Certainly, this place provided the much sought after audience. One rabbi who took advantage of this podium was Jesus. According to Matthew 23, Jesus concluded his public ministry on this steps with a proclamation entitled, "the Seven Woes."

The Lesson - Today, one can visit these steps and spend time pondering the heart of the pilgrim of the first century and examining one's own heart. Many psalms served the worshipper of that time in their approach to the Temple. Of these psalms, Psalm 100 captured the mood of the pilgrim, the expectancy in Temple worship, and the adoration of God who is good and whose love endures forever. As such, this psalm continues to express for the faithful their hope and aspirations for worship.

*Two other significant scriptures to read and study on the teaching steps are Matthew 23 and Acts 2:1-41.

The Mountains Surrounding Jerusalem

2010-03-04T01:22:00.008-06:00

The Book - "Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved but abides forever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people from this time on and forevermore." - Psalm 125:1-2

The Land - The mountains surrounding Jerusalem stand just under 3,000 feet above sea level. They are the Mount of Olives, Mount Scopus, Mount Moriah and Mount Zion. Each mountain has been a stage for some of the more dramatic events in biblical history.

For example, Mount Scopus served as the base for Rome's Tenth Legion in the siege of Jerusalem in 70 A. D. Mount Moriah held both Solomon's Temple and the Second Temple. Today, the Dome of the Rock stands where Jewish temples once stood.

The Lesson - The visitor to this land readily grasps the prominence of the four mountains surrounding Jerusalem. Equally, the reader of the Bible understands the appropriateness of the imagery in Psalm 125. Just as Jerusalem is cradled by the surrounding mountains, the person of faith can experience the arms of the Lord around him. The promise of the Lord is from "this time on and forevermore."

The Ramparts of Jerusalem

2010-03-02T05:58:00.006-06:00

The Book - "Walk about Zion, go all around it, count its towers, consider well its ramparts; go through its citadels, that you may tell the next generation that this is God, our God forever and ever. He will be our guide forever" - Psalm 48:12-14.

The Land - The present rampart around the Old City is the work of Suliman the Magnificent, the Ottoman sultan. The ramparts of Psalm 48 is that of Kings Solomon and Hezekiah and perhaps Nehemiah.

Today's pilgrim or student can walk around most of the Old City atop the rampart. The rampart can be accessed at the Jaffa Gate or the Damascus Gate and exited at New Gate or Zion Gate, among others.

The words of Psalm 48 come alive as one "walks about Zion." Also, the visitor gets a splendid view of daily life in the Old City.

The Lesson - While the psalmist tells of the glory and strength of Zion, he extols God's praise.

Like the city of God and even more, God is a sure defense. God gives victory to the faithful and strikes the unbeliever's heart with fear. And God's steadfast love endures forever.

Therefore, let the people of God rejoice and praise God's name and tell the next generation of his judgments. "Walk about Zion...consider well its ramparts!"

Photo courtesy of bibleplaces.com

Celebrating the Feast of Purim

2010-02-28T13:59:00.011-06:00

The feast of Purim began last evening and concludes February 28 at sundown. Celebrating Purim is one of the more joyous occasions in the land.

At the heart of Purim festivities is the reading of the book of Esther in the synagogue. In this book, the heroine, Esther, thwarts the program of arch villain, Haman, at the urging of Mordecai. In his words, Esther has "come to the kingdom for a time like this." The king of Persia listens to the pleas of Esther, and Haman receives a dose of his own medicine.

The public reading of the book of Esther becomes rather boisterous. At the mention of the name of Haman, the crowd may stomp their feet, hiss, or sound horns.

Three other commandments for the day call for the sending of food gifts to friends, the giving of charity to the poor, and the eating of a festival meal.

One final aspect of the celebrations resembles "carnival." The costumes can represent Jewish heros or heroines. Masks are often worn. All in all, the day's activities are sober but entertaining.

Retracing the Final Week II

2010-02-25T06:50:00.005-06:00

Our group's final day was in the environs of the Old City. The focus of our field trips and our studies was the final days of Jesus' ministry.

The day began at the Lion's Gate or the St. Stephen's Gate. After a visit to St. Anne's Church, we followed the Way of the Cross through the Old City. Although the Via Dolorosa is a walk of faith and not history, the journey is nevertheless meaningful.

For us, the day did not end at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. After a long wait to enter the edicule, we continued on to the Western Wall. Since Thursdays are given to Bar Mitzvahs, the plaza was alive with singing and the dancing of school children.

The final stop on this twelve-day journey through the Bible was at the Temple Mount Excavations. There we stepped onto the first-century street along the western or retaining wall of the Second Temple. We examined the inscriptions from Isaiah and the "place of trumpeting
...."

Although hurried by a departing meal and flight, we spent as much time as possible on "the rabbis' teaching steps." These steps are considered original to the Second Temple. It was here that pilgrims ascended to the Temple from the south, and it was from these steps that Jesus unburdened his heart and rendered his final teaching. The teaching as recorded in Matthew
23 is a declaration of "woes" on the Pharisees.

As we concluded the reading of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus' cries for genuine discipleship accompanied us on our continuing journey of faith.

Retracing the Final Week I

2010-02-24T13:01:00.007-06:00

Over the next two days, our group from Mississippi will be retracing Jesus' final week in Jerusalem. In the Church, we refer to this period of his ministry as "Holy Week."

By beginning the day in Bethany, we realize that the retracing can't be on true chronological lines. Nevertheless, the sites visited are crucial in understanding the drama of Jesus' final hours.

Bethany was the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Perhaps, another Mary (who anointed Jesus' feet) lived here. Yet another of Jesus' friends who lived in Bethany was Simon the Leper.
The combination of such acquaintances attracted Jesus to Bethany often. Tradition holds that Bethany was Jesus' base for the crucial days before Passover.

From Bethany, we made our way to Bethphage located where the ancient road in the Wadi Qelt opened onto the Mount of Olives. Here we remembered Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem on what the Church today calls "Palm Sunday" (Mark 11). We spent time seeking out the meaning of what appears to be a diliberate claim of kingship, albeit a different kind of kingdom. It was not difficult to imagine a pompous procession from the west by Judea's prefect, Pontius Pilate. What a contrast it must have been!

Leaving Bethpage, we walked down the Mount of Olives to Dominus Flevit Church which commemorates Jesus' pause to weep over the city. "O Jerusalem! O Jerusalem!" the cry continues.

In the garden of Gethsemane, we prayed in the Basilica of Agony or the Church of All Nations. The architect, Antonio Barluzzi, has captured a sense of night inside the church even on the brightest of days. Nearby is the cave where the disciples might have slept through the cold night.

The afternoon was spent on Mt. Zion at the traditional site of the Upper Room, the tomb of King David, and St. Peter in Gallicantu (the place of the crowing of the cock). Between the garden of Gethsemane and Mount Zion, we were able to set the context of the events of Maunday Thursday. Some of the group took time to visit the grave of Oscar Schindler in the Protestant Cemetery.

The final stop of the day was to view the Second Temple Model of Jerusalem. This model is located now at the Israel Museum. Although it is not, the model appears of a larger scale and even more impressive in its new location. The model remains one of the great teaching tools in this land.

The Negev and the Shephelah

2010-02-23T22:27:00.007-06:00

This day of our itinerary was the longest of the ten days. We traveled south as far as Avdat in the Negev. Avdat straddles the ancient "spice route" from Petra to Gaza. The desert civilization created by the Nabateans is almost inconceivable. Only the present-day inhabitants, the Israelis, have come near their achievements in conservation and use of water and in desert farming techniques.

After an overlook at Ein Avdat, we moved on to Tel Beersheva. Earlier in the morning, we had visited Tel Arad.

At Tel Beersheva, we remembered the patriarchs who passed this way. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were all here at one time or other. Hagar and Ishmael also struggled to survive in this hostile place.

Most intriguing were the stories from Genesis that surrounded the well of Abraham. First, there is the dispute over the well between Abraham and Abimelech, subsequent covenant at the well, and Isaac's "redigging" of the well. While amusing in some of the details, the stories stress the importance of water in this place to this day.

The journey back to Jerusalem took us through the Shephelah, the lowlands or foothills between the coastal plain and the Judean Highlands. Five prominent valleys divide the Shephelah. Each valley once was protected by a fortress.

Two valleys commanded our attention. In the Valley of Elah, we read I Samuel 17, the story of David and Goliath. Then in the Sorek Valley, we remembered the stories of Samson in Judges 13-16.

From Bet Shemesh, we began the climb back "up to Jerusalem." Once again, we realized that the reference (up) is both a theological and geographical term.

Bethlehem and the Herodion

2010-02-22T09:23:00.007-06:00

Before visiting Bethlehem, our group hiked to the top of the Herodion. This partially man-made mountain is the only building project of Herod the Great that bears his name. It is also the final resting place for the client-king of Rome.

Recent excavations by Ehud Netzer have revealed what is believed to be the site of the monumental tomb of Herod. Netzer thinks that this structure, given its foundation, was seven-stories tall. As well, the archaeologists have uncovered a small, private theatre which seated 45o of Herod's guests.

In addition to Herod, the fortress served the Romans, the Zealots, and the Byzantines. Each occupant modified the site to fit their needs. For example, the Zealots transformed the triclinium into a synagogue. Intriquing as well are the numerous tunnels dug by the Zealots for surprise attacks into the countryside.

Perhaps the most striking fact about the Herodion comes from the period of its construction. Herod's workers literally moved an adjacent mountain to raise the elevation of the Herodion some 65 feet. Scholars in the land speculate that this imagery may have been background for Jesus' teaching in Mark 11:22-23: "Have faith in God. Truly I tell you, if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea, and if you do not doubt in your heart, but believe that what you say will come to pass, it will be done for you.'"

These words of Jesus served as inspiration for our afternoon visits to two mission sites in the Greater Bethlehem area, Hope Secondary School and Bethlehem Bible College.

The Judean Wilderness

2010-02-22T06:37:00.005-06:00

Following worship at St. George's Cathedral in East Jerusalem, we set out for the Judean Wilderness. The Wilderness between Jerusalem and the Jericho/Dead Sea area can often be menacing, but not today. Winter rainfall has caused the normally brown landscape to sprout new grass. This region certainly has its own beauty.

Our first stop was Ein Gedi, the spring of the wild goat. Again, the recent rains have made the reserve alive with new growth and abounding with water. Again, what a day to visit Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea! Most days here can be so oppressive and challenging, but again not today.

We then returned north for a stop at Qumran. Here we pondered the likes of the Essenes and their potential influence on John the Baptizer and the early church.

In Jericho, we enjoyed lunch and visited what is often called Old Testament Jericho. The 10,000 year-old tower never ceases to amaze and humble me. Sadly, the site still needs attention and development.

The last stop of the day was at New Testament Jericho. The remains of Herod's Palace provided us the opportunity to discuss the life of Herod the Great. With a visit scheduled later for the Herodion, we were able to connect the death and burial of Herod.

But it was the story of Jesus' temptation in the Wilderness that dominated our thoughts in this desolate place. The setting allowed us to feel deeply the tests of One who was tested as no other.

The Arbel, Sepphoris, Megiddo, and Caesarea

2010-02-19T22:58:00.005-06:00

Our time in the Galilee ended today, and what a way to finish. We climbed the Arbel for a final look at the entire region. The morning sky was clear blue, and we could see forever.

From the Arbel, we traveled to Sepphoris or Zippori. Excavations continue at the site, revealing more and more mosaics. Our discussion centered on the possibility of Joseph and Jesus working here. Nazareth is less than four miles away. Richard Batey offers a strong case for Jesus' presence here in his book, Sepphoris: the Forgotten City.

After a quick trip around Tel Megiddo, we ended the day at Caesarea Maritima. We explored all three sections of the city. As the sun was setting, we arrived at the aqueducts. Our timing could not have been better. It was the perfect ending of a perfect day.

Note: As you can see from the photo, I am relying on Todd Bolen's Pictorial Library of the Bible once again. I failed to bring my camera for this photo op.

A Day Around the Sea of Galilee

2010-02-18T09:22:00.005-06:00

The fourth day for the group was around the Sea of Galilee. Today it is known by the locals as "the Kinneret." Kinneret means "harp." If you view the lake on a map, it does have the shape of an ancient harp. And folklore equates the sounds of the lake with that of the most beautiful music, thus the name.

Still another source confers preferential status on the Kinneret. After the seven seas, God takes special delight in the Sea of Galilee.

Most groups find any day special around the lake. This day began with a visit to see the first century boat at Ginnosar, followed by a boat ride on the sea. Next, we read the Beatitudes on the mount by the same name.

At Chorazim, we visited the ancient synagogue and explored in depth many of Jesus' teaching. An ancient insula (house) provided the setting for study of the parables of the lost coin and the friend coming at midnight, the promise of Jesus that God's house has many rooms, and the account of the healing of the lame man brought by friends (Mark 2).

Other stops were at Bethsaida, Capernaum, and the springs of the apostles in the Wadi Hamam. As always, this day around the lake was packed with lessons from the land.

The Jezreel Valley Where God Sows

2010-02-17T09:50:00.003-06:00

On our third day in the land, we dodged rain showers. Our itinerary included various sites in the Jezreel Valley. This most fertile of valleys is rightly named "God sows."

We began the day at Bet Shean, one of the cities of the Decapolis. From there, we journeyed to Ein Harod where we remembered Gideon and God's victory over the Midianites. Later, we visited Jezreel, the city, and recalled just one of the many injustices of King Ahab and Jezebel. The story of Naboth and his vineyard still cries out for redemption.

The final stop before lunch was at Nain (Nein). Here we celebrated one of the miracles of Jesus, the raising of the widow's son. Only Luke records this event. In response to Jesus' compassionate act, the villagers declared that "a great prophet had risen in their midst." This response and the miracle sound strikingly similar to that of Elisha who raised a widow's son at Shunem (an area town).

From here, we left the Jezreel Valley and ascended the hills of the Lower Galilee to the city of Nazareth. The afternoon was extremely cold and rainy. But we persisted on and saw the Churches of the Annunciation, St. Joseph, St. Gabriel, and the Synagogue Church.

The Elders at the Gate

2010-02-16T07:02:00.005-06:00

Today we set out for the Upper Galilee and the Golan Heights. The weather forecast called for rain and snow. Our first stop was Hazor which was pleasant enough weather-wise. Hazor is remembered as the site of one of the earliest victories of Joshua over the Canaanites. Also, Hazor served as the setting for James Michener's The Source.

The second stop was Tel Dan which proved an even more pleasant outing. Members of the group secured their baptismal water from the one of the headwaters of the Jordan which flows through the nature reserve.

But the gate to the Iron Age City drew much of the attention. One of the group assumed the role of the king at the gate. In ancient times, judgments were made by the king at the gate in the presence of the elders and the people

Here we also read Ruth 4 detailing how business transactions were made in biblical times. In this instance, Boaz redeemed the property of Naomi as the first step to claiming the hand of Ruth. Boaz had to give the next-of-kin the first opportunity at redemption. When the kinsman declined the offer, Boaz acquired the field. The transaction was attested by the exchange of one sandal.

Amazingly, we were drawn into the business of the day at this ancient gate. The lessons from the land were numerous.

Continuing on to Caesarea Philippi, we encountered heavy rain. As we climbed onto the Golan Heights, heavy fog and icy rain descended. The day ended early with a return to the lake and two visits to churches.

www.holylandphotos.org/

The Best of Intentions

2010-02-15T06:30:00.005-06:00

I had the best of intentions. My intention was to blog at the end of each day during our journey through the land. Either it was the age of the blogger or the intensity of the days while traveling with the Jerusalem Center for Biblical Studies that thwarted my best of intentions.

Therefore, I have decided on the second best approach to recounting the days in the land and recording "lessons from the land." I will write from the perspective of hindsight.

The group from Mississippi arrived at Ben Gurion Airport ahead of schedule. After a brief reunion, we embarked on our journey by traveling up the Coastal Plain, turning east at the Caesarea (Maritima) Junction, passing Megiddo and Nazareth, skirting Mount Tabor, and descending into Tiberias from the south.

Ahead of us, we have four days in the Galilee. Four days seem hardly enough since eighty-five per cent of the ministry of Jesus takes place around the sea and in Upper and Lower Galilee. But we will make do. First things first, the group needs dinner and a night's rest

Light Force

2010-01-30T13:00:00.010-06:00

The Bethlehem Bible College is a beacon of light in the town of Jesus. Of course, two other kings are remembered in this city, King David and King Herod.

Today, our visit was not to sites associated with the three kings of Israel. Two friends and I called on the President of the college, Bishara Awad, and his brother, Alex. Bishara Awad founded the Bible College on a donation of twenty dollars from a single pastor. Bishara's vision and faith have been realized. We smiled and rejoiced as we heard his remarkable story.

While visiting, we picked up a book by Brother Andrew entitled Light Force. This account abounds with stories of peacemaking in the Middle East. One of those stories is that of the Bethelehem Bible College. The BBC is a light force in this land and daily issues a clarion call to people of faith to work and pray.

Even the smallest seed sown can become a great tree. The light that shone on shepherds in a field near here continues to shine. It shines through people like the Awads, the faculty and students of the BBC, and people like you and me.

The Pool of Siloam

2010-01-27T12:26:00.008-06:00

Today, I visited the Pool of Siloam at the southern end of the City of David. The recent excavations drew me here.

In the time of Jesus, the Pool of Siloam served thousands of pilgrims and citizens of Jerusalem. It appears now that one of the uses of the pool was as a mikveh. Pilgrims could take their ritual baths before ascending to the Temple.

The Gospel of John relates two incidents where the pool was the medium of God's activity. The first occasion is found in John 7:37-39 and takes place during the Feast of Tabernacles. On the last day of the festival, the High Priest would descend to the pool and dip water for the libation offering. Mixing water and prayers upon his return to the Temple precincts, the anticipated result was the early rains in October. According to John, Jesus takes this opportunity to proclaim: "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me..."

The second incident recorded by John (9:1-12) is the healing of a man born blind. Using mud made with saliva, Jesus commands that the man wash in the Pool of Siloam. There follows a rather long account of the consternation of the Pharisees, an investigation of the circumstances surrounding the miracle, and a denunciation by Jesus of the religious leaders' spiritual blind-

ness. The implication is that Jesus is the light of the world for all who have eyes to see.

What I discover today is the newly excavated Herodian street from the time of Jesus. I am moved by the knowledge that this is the street that the High Priest and the blind man would have traveled. Almost certainly, Jesus came this way too!

Even more, I am stirred to faith in God's provision. As long ago in this place God provided rain for his people in season and sight for a blind man, so God still provides for the people of this land and for me.

The Almond Trees Are Blossoming

2010-01-26T23:25:00.003-06:00

The day is damp, cold, and quite uncomfortable in Jerusalem. Of course, it's January 26th. It is winter!

Yet, the almond trees are beginning to blossom. Their tiny blossoms are exceptionally white against the gray sky. Streaked in pink and accompanied by their green leaves, the almond tree is the first promise of spring in the land.

Reminded of the words of the prophet Jeremiah, I found the text upon my arrival back at the hotel (Jeremiah 1:11-12):

The word of the Lord came to me, saying, "Jeremiah, what do you see?" And I said, "I see a branch of an almond tree." Then the Lord said to me, "You have seen well, for I am watching over my word to perform it."

At home in Mississippi, the Japanese magnolia is our first promise of spring. I always welcome its buds as a sign of things to come. Today in Jerusalem, I saw the almond tree in the same way.

Exploring the footnote in my Bible, I notice that the Hebrew word for "watch" sounds like the word for "almond tree." Thus God reinforces his message to Jeremiah and God's people. As the almond tree is the sign of the future harvest, so God's word will be brought to fulfillment.

Just as we watch eagerly for another spring, let us watch and pray for the future fulfillment of God's word.

Sauntering in the Old City

2010-01-22T08:30:00.004-06:00

Any day is a nice day to walk in the Old City. Today was especially pleasant. It is Friday, and the city is just coming back to life (photo used by permission: Todd Bolen).

Therefore, my pace is better one of "sauntering." Such is more like strolling and taking in one's surroundings. A stop at the Austrian Hospice for hot chocolate is even in order.

But sauntering is the right word. Thoreau said, "It is a great art to saunter." He also provided this account of the origin of the word.

It derived from idle people who roved about the countryside, in the Middle Ages, and asked charity, under the pretext of being on their way to the Sainte Terree - Holy Land. These people came to be called Sainte-Terrers. And thus evolved the saunterers.

I am delighted to be in the Holy Land as a saunterer. Such a pace is not always my choice, but today is a nice day to saunter. May we all, wherever we are, seek to recover this art. There are days for sauntering.

The Jerusalem University College

2010-01-21T08:14:00.004-06:00

The highlight of our day was a visit to the Jerusalem University College, formerly the Institute of the Holy Land. JUC has its main campus on Mount Zion between the Joppa and Zion Gates.

I had an appointment with Dr. Paul Wright, the dean of the college. I guess you might say that "we were comparing notes."

I learned that the first dean of the Jerusalem Center for Biblical Studies, Dr. Jim Fleming, is a graduate of the college. Dr. Fleming's impact on JCBS certainly reflects well on Jerusalem University College.

The campus provides an entrance to the Protestant Cemetery and the Essene Gate. Briefly, the cemetery is the final resting place of many of God's saints. One that you probably know is Horatio Spafford, the composer of the gospel hymn, "It is Well with My Soul."

As for the Essene Gate, Bargil Pixner surmises that the Essenes had a monastery on Mount Zion. He goes further to speculate that Jesus and the disciples utilized the monastery for the Last Supper. Interesting!

A walk back through the Old City made for a nice morning despite the cold and the overcast skies.

Beit Jala and the Valley of Elah

2010-01-19T07:58:00.004-06:00

Beit Jala is one of several villages located in the Bethlehem triangle. The town is predominantly Arab Christian. St. Nicholas Church and Hope Secondary School contribute greatly to the life of this community.

My visit was to Hope Secondary School, whose headmaster is Solomon Nour. He is one of my heroes. Solomon is gentle, kind, and passionate about educating Muslim and Christian children in the ways of peace. The odds against him are great, but Solomon is undeterred.

I almost always walk the grounds of the school. Atop a high hill, the school provides one with a great view of the Valley of Elah. Young David would have traveled this valley to reach his brothers who were serving in Saul's army. David did more than resupply his brothers that day. He defeated the Philistines and their hero Goliath singlehandedly.

Therefore, I will never doubt my friend Solomon and that he is succeeding with the children. While David slew Goliath and defeated the Philistines, Solomon Nour is winning over his foes with the gospel of peace. Pray for the work of Hope Secondary School and peacemakers like this headmaster.

Rain At Last in the Land

2010-01-18T03:04:00.003-06:00

The tourists (pilgrims) are scurrying around to find additional rain-gear. The temperature is in the fifties, and there is a heavy rain with fog. What a beautiful day!

Rain has returned to the land. There has been little rain in December and early January. All the people of the land are thanking God.

While the weather today is unpleasant for the tourists, it is life-giving to the land and its people. All are looking to the Source for more rain.

The Bible speaks of the "early rain" and the "latter rain." The early rain comes in October and November. It is needed as the ground is broken and seed planted. Then in March and April, the latter rain is required to determine the quality and extent of the harvest.

From December to February, the most plentiful rain falls to insure a harvest. I guess you would call this the "middle rain." I am told that Jerusalem receives as much rain as London, except over a fifty-day period. London receives its rain over a three hundred-day span. Therefore, you can see how important it is to receive rain now.

With water so important, little wonder that Jesus spoke of the "living water" God gives. In fact, throughout the Bible, water is a metaphor or image for God and God's provision.

Today, I celebrate the return of rain to the land and thank God. You will not hear me say: "Rain, rain, go away..."

The Lord's Day in Jerusalem

2010-01-17T09:08:00.004-06:00

I have posted my experiences with the Jewish Sabbath and the Muslim holy day of Friday. Today, I celebrated worship on the Lord's Day at St. George's Cathedral. The cathedral is near our hotel in East Jerusalem.

I attended the 11:00 a. m. service with some forty other worshippers. The ritual was comforting, and the organ music was uplifting.

The gospel reading for the day was John 2:1-11, the account of the wedding at Cana of Galilee. The sermon was edifying.

As I listened, the many trips to Cana came to mind. Although the site is considered traditional only by most scholars, this Cana is a good place to remember the story of Mary, Jesus, and a groom and bride.

But back to St. George's and Sunday worship! For 2,000 years now, Christians continue to gather and worship the Lord who is still the joy of life. I depart rejoicing in the opportunity to worship on this Lord's Day in Jerusalem.

Muslim Holy Day in the Old City

2010-01-16T01:59:00.003-06:00

It's Friday, the Muslim holy day, and I have joined the stream of worshippers entering the Damascus Gate for prayer at the "noble sanctuary." We share different destinations today but similar needs.

The devout Muslim prays five times a day, but on Friday, he seeks out the third holiest site in Islam for prayer. I can sense the desire for the Holy in the crowd. There is unbelievable energy and expectation.

I am told that Moses was first told that one must pray fifty times a day. When Moses laughed, the requirement was reduced to five times daily. I too breathe a sigh of relief.

In the West, we are hard pressed to pray once daily. Here in the Middle East, prayer is a pillar of faith and a profound longing for the Holy. Perhaps, we have much to learn from our friends in this place.

Return to Bethlehem

2010-01-15T02:10:00.005-06:00

I enjoy returning to Bethlehem whenever possible. Today, I accompanied forty-nine students from Lutheran Southern Theological Seminary and laity from the Columbia, SC area.

We began our day in Efrat, a Jewish settlement of some 9,000 persons. The head of the Religious Council, Bob Lang, spoke to the group with his perspective on the present political situation in the land. Later we heard from the Reverend Mitri Raheb, pastor of the Lutheran Church in Bethlehem as to the Palestininan perspective. Of course, I am discovering that there are more than "two sides" to this situation. The issues are complex and not always black and white. Doesn't that sound familiar as to many of the challenges we face?

I ended my day strolling quietly through the Roman Catholic Shepherds' Fields. It was dusk, and the evening was a bit cool. My thoughts were of the angels' song, "Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth to men of good will!" Given all that I have heard today, may this song echo anew and reassure men of good will today to continue the efforts for peace in this land.

Samson: Strength Gone to Waste

2010-01-12T13:29:00.002-06:00

I traveled today with students from Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary of Lansdale, PA. Our first stop was Beth Shemesh in the Sorek Valley. Beth Shemesh means "house of the sun," and the Sorek Valley is the first of five valleys that crisscross the lowlands which lead to the Judean highlands.

Tel Beth Shemesh is a neglected archaeological site, but the site is a place to remember the story of Samson. While we read only a small portion of Judges 13-16, the meditation on his life and tragic end was sobering.

Samson's story begins with promise: a special birth to a barren wife, dedicated parents, God's clothing of him with His spirit, a playful nature, quick wit, and amazing physical strength.

Yet with Samson, there is a downside. He is spoiled, violent, and foolish. Samson is an example of great strength gone to waste.

So here on a lonely tel, I remember Samson and call to mind those like him who show so much promise but fail in the end. I could name them from the distant past or today's headlines. But I will not; rather I will examine my own heart. I pray, "Lord, may my strength not go to waste."

Let Us Go Over to Bethlehem

2010-01-11T07:20:00.008-06:00

On the sixth day of Christmas, four friends and I went "over to Bethlehem." Of course, it is the Orthodox Christmas which began January 6th.

Most shops and restaurants have beautifully decorated Christmas trees. The citizens greet you with "Merry Christmas" and "Happy New Year!"

As we talk with the people, hopes appear high for 2010. Indeed, there seems to be more activity in the City of David, and tourists have returned in greater numbers.

While it is a joy to speak of such expectations at this season, any journey to Bethlehem buoys my spirit and stirs my faith. This trip is no different. In the place where God came to earth in a baby, I am forever reminded that God is neither through with us, nor has He left us alone.

In Bethlehem where it is always Christmas for the pilgrim, I experience anew the love of God in Jesus. How wonderful it is to "go over to Bethlehem" once again!

Sabbath in Israel

2010-01-10T01:19:00.004-06:00

The first hint of the approaching Sabbath is in the scurrying to complete Sabbath preparations. For once Sabbath descends on Friday, all such activity ceases.

Other signs of Sabbath observance are the lighting of Sabbath candles in the hotel, the red light identifying the Sabbath elevator (which automatically stops at every floor), Jewish families gathering for the evening meal, the synagogue service in the evening, and the complete silence that accompanies the rising dawn of Saturday.

Still other cues are the delay of room service until late Saturday, the absence of "hot" soup from the dinner buffet, and finally the festivity of the new evening.

Sabbath in Israel! I am reminded of the Sunday observances of my childhood and youth. Strange as it seems, I miss aspects of those observances: cessation of chores, rest, silence, and family time. I am challenged to work out my modern observance of sabbath when I return home.

A January Morning in En Gedi

2010-01-08T22:48:00.003-06:00

Early today, twenty-seven seminarians, two professors, and I set out from Jerusalem for the Rift Valley along the Dead Sea. Our destinations were En Gedi and Masada.

En Gedi means "the spring of the kid" or "the mountain goat." The reserve is the gift of water in this otherwise desolate place. Little wonder, our ancestors here experienced water and remembered God with gratitude.

The reserve is alive with ibex, hyrax (the coney), and the red-winged blackbird. As we walk toward the spring in the mountainside, the air is cool and refreshing but already with the promise of an unseasonably warm January day.

En Gedi, located on this stretch of Dead Sea shoreline, is one example of the contrasts found in this remarkable land of the Bible. This land is a microcosm of the world we live in and calls out for us to embrace, enjoy, and protect all God's creation.

I Was Glad When They Said Unto Me, "Let us go up to the House of the Lord"

2010-01-07T01:53:00.003-06:00

So the psalmist spoke for all pilgrims! After air travel over two days and a good night's sleep, I am "standing in the gates of Jerusalem." There is no place like Jerusalem!

Today's weather is quite mild for January, beautiful and sunny. According to our friends, there has been little rain in December. And since this is the rainy season, join me in praying for rain. Of course, the mild and dry weather is great for the tourists but detrimental to the country.

Our plan is to walk in the old city today. The sights, sounds and smells are delightful to the senses.

Tomorrow, we will explore Masada and walk the En Gedi nature reserve. Hopefully, we can post some pictures.

COME AND SEE!

2010-01-05T10:33:00.002-06:00

Today I embark on my sixteenth trip to the Holy Land! I am as excited as at the first. What awaits are favorite sites, new learnings and places, good friends, and the healthiest diet in the world!

When Jesus met two of his disciples in John 1, they asked: "Rabbi, where are you staying?" To which Jesus replied: "Come and see." These words of Jesus continue to carry his invitation to today's disciples. "Come and see." My hope is that 2011 will be the year that many of you will respond to Jesus' invitation by making the pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

For now, I invite you to see the land through my eyes. I hope to post daily blogs. You will read of holy places, current events, personal insights, and "living stones" (the people of the land). So come along and see!

Jesus' Mighty Acts in Capernaum

2009-12-15T11:13:00.006-06:00

When Jesus made a return visit to Nazareth, the villagers inquired as to why he performed no mighty acts there as in Capernaum. Word had spread far and wide of Jesus' ministry in Capernaum and the surrounding villages, especially Nazareth.

With Capernaum as his operational center, Jesus preached, taught, and performed mighty acts or miracles. He preached repentance and taught as one who had authority and not as the scribes. In response to such good news, the crowds gathered.

The crowds also came because of Jesus' mighty acts. They consisted of the healing of the sick, the exorcising of demons and the raising of the dead. These acts were mighty and powerful. The gospel of Mark especially seems to portray Jesus as one who has power over disease, demons and death.

The people of Capernaum welcomed and celebrated this activity without any constraints on the ministry of Jesus. Perhaps the constraints placed on Jesus in Nazareth prevented the demonstration of power there also.

Jesus' ministry continues today where meek souls still welcome Him without reservation. May
His power over disease, demons and death be released among us!

Let's Revisit Capernaum!

2009-11-16T09:58:00.005-06:00

Earlier, I offered Capernaum as one of my favorite sites to visit. A popular magazine recently listed the town as one of the ten most important archaelogical sites in the Holy Land.

Let's revisit Capernaum! I enjoy everything about the site from strolling along the long approach to the entrance, to the smells of springtime from the adjacent fields, to the impressive remains of the synagogue, to the house of Peter's mother-in-law, to the hovering modern church.

If not a favorite of Jesus, Capernaum was certainly the town of choice as his headquarters for the Galilean ministry. When the gospel writers tell us that Jesus left Nazareth and took up residence in Capernaum, the move is significant. Obviously, Capernaum was larger than Nazareth and more strategically located on the International Highway. You might say that the world passed by the town, making it easier for the gospel of the kingdom of God to be proclaimed to the nations.

Perhaps less obvious, the transition to Capernaum marked a shift in Jesus' interpretation of Torah and an embrace of a more inclusive Judaism. Capernaum's synagogue followed the teachings of Hillel.

Capernaum provided great opportunities for Jesus and his ministry! The events and his teachings there hold promise for our instruction and future discipleship.

THE DAY OF ATONEMENT

2009-09-28T20:02:00.002-05:00

Today is Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. Let us join our Jewish friends in celebrating the atoning God!

After Sabbath, the highest of the High Holy Days is Yom Kippur. This day is given to a twenty-five hour fast, repentance, and a cessation of labor. Observant Jews wear white clothing and canvas sneakers. The wearing of leather shoes is prohibited. The day is spent in the synagogue for services.

The book of Jonah is read. In Jonah, God is revealed as forgiving of the repentant of all nations.

Most of all, this day carries a sense of urgency. Time is fleeting! God awaits but will not wait forever. Judgment is sure. Let us all, this day, repent and believe the good news. Our atoning God is near.

ST. PETER'S HOUSE IN CAPERNAUM AMONG TOP TEN

2009-09-02T13:27:00.004-05:00

Top ten lists abound. David Letterman takes great delight with his upside-down lists. You, no doubt, have used this popular format.

In regards to my travel and study in the land, I am often asked as to my favorite places to visit. While I certainly have my favorite sites and vistas, I am hard pressed to limit them to ten.

Among the ten would be Capernaum by the sea of Galilee and often referred to as "the hometown of Jesus." Therefore, I was pleased to see Capernaum occupying a position of prominence on Biblical Archaeology Review's "Ten Top Discoveries." This popular magazine recently published its 200th issue with this article on favorite finds throughout the years.

Just sample a part of the article which highlights Capernaum:

"As first reported in BAR more than 25 years ago, Italian excavators working in Capernaum may have actually uncovered the remnants of the humble dwelling Jesus once called home while in Capernaum.
Buried beneath the remains of a Byzantine martyrium church, excavators found the ruins of a rather mundane dwelling dating to the first century B.C. Although slightly larger than most, the house was a simple structure supported by coarse basalt fieldstone walls and roofed with nothing more than earth and straw. Like most early Roman-period houses, it consisted of a few small rooms clustered around two open courtyards. In a word, the house was ordinary. According to the excavators, however, it is what happened to the house after the middle of the first century A.D. that marked it as exceptional and most likely the home of Peter.
In the years immediately following Jesus’ death, the function of the house changed dramatically. The house’s main room was completely plastered over from floor to ceiling—a rarity for houses of the day. At about the same time, the house’s pottery, which had previously been basic domestic wares such as cooking pots and bowls, now consisted entirely of large storage jars and oil lamps. Such radical alterations indicate that the house no longer functioned as a residence but instead had become a place for communal gatherings, possibly even Christian gatherings.
More important, the excavators found that during the ensuing centuries, the plastered room from the original house had been renovated and converted into the central hall of a rudimentary church. The room’s old stone walls were buttressed by a newly built two-story-high arch that, in turn, supported a new stone roof. The room was even replastered and painted over with floral and geometric designs of various colors.
The Christian character of the building was confirmed by more than a hundred graffiti scratched into the church’s walls. Most of the inscriptions, according to the excavators, say things like “Lord Jesus Christ help thy servant” or “Christ have mercy.” They are written in Greek, Syriac or Hebrew and are sometimes accompanied by etchings of small crosses or, in one case, a boat. The excavators claim that the name of St. Peter is mentioned in several graffiti, although many scholars now dispute these readings."

For the entire article and this special edition of BAR, visit your favorite bookstore or order online at www.biblicalarchaeology.org.

Also, for more as to Capernaum's place among the towns of Galilee in the time of Jesus, let's talk back in subsequent blogs.

THE HOSPITALITY STATE

2009-09-01T16:57:00.004-05:00

Recently, we entertained friends from Jerusalem in our home. They work and teach in Bethlehem. We had a joyous time eating together, sharing stories and remembering happy times in the land.

My initial emotion was one of gratitude. I was happy for the chance to return hospitality for hospitality shown to us by them. Our friends, like many in the land, are gracious and generous people. In Israel and Palestine, hospitality is highly valued as in biblical times.

In the time of Jesus, five acts of hospitality were expected in welcoming the stranger. They were the offering of a cup of water, the provision of a meal, the washing of feet, the anointing of the head, and the greeting with a kiss. A breach in hospitality was a serious departure from custom.

During the course of our visit, I began entertaining some unsettling thoughts. While I was generous toward my friends, would I be equally so toward a stranger?

Hospitality in the scriptures focuses on the stranger. Jesus once challenged the disciples to love those who love you but not to stop there.

I am a native of Mississippi. Mississippi styles itself as "the hospitality state." If I must say so myself, we have a nice way of welcoming folks. But it has not always been that way. We have grown in our inclusion of friend and stranger.

Obviously, I am on this journey also. As I entertain friends, so I seek to welcome all.

READER OR WRITER?

2009-08-21T12:55:00.003-05:00

My friend surprised me when he declared: "I am a reader, not a writer." He was answering my question regarding his retirement plans. I thought that I knew my friend. I definitely felt that he had contributions to make as a writer. His assessment of himself was obviously different from mine.

I have turned this over in my mind for sometime. With this blog, I evidently think of myself as a writer. I too think of myself as a reader. Both/and, not either/or!

But some of us think of ourselves only in terms of a reader. You may be one of those persons who is most comfortable with a good book and not a pad and pencil.

If so, let me share a good read. Remember, I consider myself both/and. The book is entitled Sitting at the Feet of the Rabbi Jesus. It is written by Ann Spangler and Lois Tverberg and published by Zondervan. The subtitle, How the Jewishness of Jesus Can Transform Your Faith, describes best what the book has to offer you. You will find it in most bookstores.

Happy reading!

News to Make One Smile

2009-08-18T14:35:00.005-05:00

Little in the news today makes one smile. Nevertheless, I smiled broadly at the news of the recent opening of the Museum of the Good Samaritan in Israel. The museum is located on the road from Jerusalem to Jericho. The site is purported to be that of biblical Ma'ale Adumim and the inn of the Good Samaritan.

The smile, of course, is evoked by the attempt to identify and locate this new enterprise according to details in a parable of Jesus. While the story contains details which are identifiable
and events that might have taken place, the truth is that it is parable and not history.

The museum contains artifacts inspired by the well-known parable of Jesus. There is an open-air display of mosaics and other exhibits.

While I will be tempted to visit on my next trip to Israel, I am more apt to visit anew the parable found in Luke 10: 25-37. Even better, I will seek to do as the Good Samaritan did.

For more, travel to www.bib-arch.org/news.

ED MCMAHON, MEET ANDREW OF BETHSAIDA

2009-07-06T11:21:00.005-05:00

Last week, Ed McMahon died. McMahon was the longtime sidekick of Johnny Carson. Unanimously, commentators referred to McMahon as the great "second fiddle." We will not soon forget his stepping aside at the beginning of every Tonight Show and welcoming Carson with "here's Johnny!"

Centuries earlier, Andrew of Bethsaida played the role of a great "second fiddle." He was the brother of the more famous Simon Peter. In fact, the Gospel of John (John 1:40) refers to Andrew as "Simon Peter's brother." Although he came first to Jesus, Andrew remained in the shadows of the "big fisherman."

Ed McMahon never seemed to chafe against his role. He never revealed any bitterness. Of course, some might say that he was paid handsomely for being a second fiddle. Even better, McMahon was gifted in other ways.

Andrew, the disciple of Jesus, seemed to embrace his role humbly as well. After all, he had gifts too. You might say that his gift was that of an "introducer." Three times he appears in the gospels (John 1:42; John 6:8; John 12:22),and each time he is introducing people to Jesus. In addition to bringing his brother, Andrew brings a boy to Jesus. The lad has loaves and fishes which Jesus uses in the feeding of the 5,000. Andrew later, along with Philip, brings Greeks to Jesus.

Andrew's strength was also that of Ed McMahon. They spent much of their lives introducing people while playing well the role of second fiddle.

As we remember and give thanks for Ed McMahon and Andrew, may we also learn from them to run to our strengths even if it means playing second fiddle.

Pentecost and Shavout

2009-06-03T13:13:00.007-05:00

On Sunday (May 31), Christians and Jews celebrated as one. The occasion was Pentecost (Greek) , the feast of fifty days, or Shavout (Hebrew), the feast of Weeks or the festival of First Fruits.

Shavout marks the end of Passover season. A sacrifice of grain is offered in gratitude for the spring harvest. According to the Talmud, the holiday is associated with the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai.

Pentecost brings to a close the fifty days of Easter by celebrating the birth of the Church. According to the Acts of the Apostles, God's gift to the infant Church was the Holy Spirit.

The Book of Ruth, the Song of Songs, and the Ten Commandments are to be read during this festival. Further celebrations are a sensual delight with challa in the shape of a ladder, cheese blintzes, much greenery and blazing red decor.

Blessings this Pentecost! "Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!"

2009-05-25T15:02:00.015-05:00

LESSON FROM THE LAND - JOHN 10:11-18

Today's pilgrims to the Holy Land are fascinated by the figure of the eastern shepherd. Dr. Maxie Dunnam is not unlike many pilgrims returning from recent trips when he notes that "shepherds and their flocks" were found to be the subjects of many of his photographs. Although visitors to this land have no first-hand knowledge of shepherding, they are still drawn to shepherds and their flocks. The feelings evoked by the image of the shepherd are perhaps unmatched in Christian experience.

Our admiration of shepherds was not shared by religious leaders in the first century CE. Shepherding was considered a despised trade. Joachim Jeremias tells us that shepherds were considered no better than thieves. The oral law actually forbade the purchase of milk and wool from shepherds for fear that they had been pilfered. Jeremias further reveals that fathers refused to teach their sons this trade. The trade too easily lent itself to dishonesty and thievery. No doubt, this assessment of shepherding led to the increasing employment of hirelings. Hired hands gradually became the only persons an absentee owner could find to tend his flock.

Given this understanding of the shepherd's social position, the words of Jesus in our text are quite revealing. Beyond the initial impact of an "I am" saying, this claim of "I am the good shepherd" is equally stunning. The reader is reminded of other images appropriated and cleaned up as it were by Jesus. Leaven is just one such example of Jesus' arousal of interest in his audience by the employment of an unexpected comparison. "The kingdom of God is like leaven..."

While there is much to draw upon from the larger context of John 10: 1-21 regarding shepherds, sheep, and sheepfolds, the focus of the immediate text is in the contrast between the good shepherd and the hireling. Jesus clearly knew of the popularly held opinion of shepherds. He risked the comparison to startle and more, to establish the connection with the promise of God in Hebrew texts like Ezekiel 34:11. Throughout this chapter of Ezekiel, the failure of both religious and political leaders is documented. Their failure was precisely that of the first century "hireling." The hireling cared only about himself at the expense of the sheep. Kings, prophets, and priests pampered themselves to the neglect of the sheep. As a result of this failure, God announced to the nation: "Behold I, I myself will search for my sheep..." In the same spirit, Jesus offered Himself as the Good Shepherd.

The contrast between Jesus and the shepherds of his day is greatest at the point of the willingness to sacrifice a life for the sheep. The hireling flees at the first sign of danger. He does not know the sheep. They are not his own; they belong to someone else. He cares not for the sheep. Against this background of first century reality, Jesus says: "I lay down my life for the sheep." In his compassion for the sheep, Jesus is like his heavenly Father.

The difference in attitudes and actions of the good shepherd was all the more striking when considering rabbinic law. According to the teaching of the day, the shepherd was not responsible for the loss of sheep in the event of a violent attack. Only careless acts by the shepherd incurred the wrath of the owner and the law. As usual, Jesus goes beyond the demands of the law in his sacrificial giving.

Considering the immediate and larger contexts of this teaching, the contrasting images of shepherds were intended more as an indictment of political and religious leaders than impoverished hirelings. Jesus condemned the leadership of his day for failure like unto Ezekiel's day. When he felt the sting of their growing criticism, he decried their neglect of God's people. He boldly challenged their motives, while offering himself as God's faithful servant.

This unforgettable image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd later stirred the disciples to faith and service. They embraced the vocation of shepherd as their model for ministry.

Countless generations of disciples and pastors since have likewise responded positively to the Lord as shepherd. The emotions stirred by this image no doubt explain the attraction of Holy Land pilgrims to the lonely shepherd tending his flock in the field.