Deuteronomy 26:9 And he brought us into this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey.

Photos from Israel- October 2022

Photos from Israel- June 2022

I have had the opportunity to travel to Israel on a number of occasions, and have been blessed each time. Plans began in 2019 to take another group to Israel from Cross Lanes Baptist Church. More than forty people committed to make the the trip. Then the pandemic set in. We rescheduled and canceled again numerous times due to continued complications. Part of our group was able to be in Israel in June of this year, and everyone else who persevered went recently.

Israel is much more diverse in topography than many people realize. There are a number of benefits of experiencing it. First, to see and experience the places where the stories of the Bible took place is moving, especially related to the life and ministry of Jesus. Second, archaeological discoveries are ongoing and they support and affirm what we know to be true about the Bible. Learning about and seeing many of the discoveries is encouraging. Third, it is transformative for Bible reading and teaching. After returning home the places visited and the connections with the Bible made in Israel routinely come to mind while studying God’s Word. Fourth, it is a powerful reminder that there is still much more to come in the future. God has a plan for the ages and Israel remains a part of that plan, including the return of the Lord Jesus and the things to follow.

Israel is a beautiful place! It is helpful to be among the people of the land and better understand their culture. For all who are financially and physically able to make the journey, it is well worth doing so.