Tuesday, July 25, 2017

Places Not To Be Missed On Holy Land Vacations

By Gary Edwards


For many Christians the opportunity to spend time visiting the land where Jesus lived, taught, and died is a once in a lifetime experience. Most want to see as much of this countryside as possible and visit the places where He is thought to have been. It may be impossible to see everything in one visit, but there are some places that should be on the short list for Holy Land vacations.

One of the first things most Christians want to do when they come to Israel is to walk the Via Dolorosa. It extends from the Lions' Gate located at the Muslim Quarter to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre at the Christian Quarter. This is the path many believe Jesus took on the way to Calvary on His last day. The route incorporates the fourteen stations of the cross. Finding the plaque indicating a station can be difficult. Tourists are encouraged to take advantage of guided tours.

The walk ends at the Old City and the Church of the Sepulchre. This is the spot known as Golgotha or Calvary, where Jesus was crucified. Many believers feel that Jesus' tomb is located beneath the ancient church, which has been the final destination for pilgrimages as far back as the fourth century. The church welcomes visitors to browse respectfully.

The Garden Tomb is one of several places historians believe Jesus may have been buried. It was discovered in the middle nineteenth century and has become an especially popular place for Protestants to spend time in prayer and contemplation. Visitors are welcome to explore the double chamber.

Jesus performed miracles and chose fishermen at the Sea of Galilee, so it is high on the list of places to see while in the area. Visitors are often surprised to learn that the sea is actually a large freshwater lake that provides half of Israel's water supply. Guests are invited to take rides in vessels built in somewhat the same manner as those used in Jesus' time.

Bethlehem, located in Judea, is one place most Christians want to visit. Anyone going into this area should be aware that it is disputed territory. Since it is the birthplace of Jesus, most risk the possible danger in order to walk in Shepherd's Field and imagine what it must have been like when the angels announced the coming of Ch.

Nazareth, which is located near Mount Tabor, and the town where Jesus grew up, should also be on the list of places to see while in Israel. Tourists can visit Mary's Well where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary and informed her she would give birth to the Christ child. The original Church of the Annunciation, which was built to mark the significance of this event, was destroyed, but a new one was built in the late 1950s.

The Holy Land is a special place for Christians. Traveling in the area is more like a pilgrimage than a vacation. Those lucky enough to see the places Jesus may have inhabited, never forget the experience. Many find a renewed sense of commitment and dedication to His teachings that last a lifetime.




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