Mountain Climbing

Have you ever looked at a map when you wanted to do something and think, "Wow, that's not bad" then to realize when you're in the midst of the journey that maps are FLAT and don't show the elevation which can make a BIG difference.  When driving, yes, but especially when walking.

~reminder, to look at any picture on our post in a larger view,
simply click on the picture, then hit the back button
 to return to the blog post ~

We had such an experience this past weekend when we decided to go to the Mount of Olives.  Last year we went there, but only visited the base of the mountain where the Garden is with all the old olive trees.  We had seen many photos from the top of the mountain looking down onto the Old City, and really wanted to go there for the view.  We did Google maps from the Lion Gate to the Seven Arches Hotel at the top of the mountain, and it said it would only take about 15 minutes to walk.  What we didn't take into account was how steep this climb would be.

When we stepped off the bus at the Lion Gate of the Old City, we looked up to where the overlook was - way, way up the mountain.  It wasn't that is was really far away, just a very steep climb.  As we made our way up the narrow paved road, many taxis passed asking if we wanted a ride.  What, did they think we were, wimps?? Or was it the the heavy breathing and slow pace they noticed?  There were a few other people making this arduous trek as well, but most take the taxi or a tour bus.



After about half way, we were able to go on the other side of the wall, to where the Jewish Cemetery is.  What an amazing site.  The Jewish people desire to be buried on the Mount of Olives because this is where the Messiah will come with the resurrection of the dead. (Then the LORD will go out and fight against those nations, as he fights on a day of battle.  On that day his feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, east of Jerusalem, and the Mount of Olives will be split in two from east to west, forming a great valley, with half of the mountain moving north and half moving south. Zechariah 14:3,4)



As we finally reached the top, being very glad we brought a water bottle, there was a tour group (probably one at all times...) and a man with a donkey and a camel.  Now Linda really wanted a picture of the camel, but we had heard stories of the owners getting very ornery if you try to take pictures without paying them for it - even though you're using your own camera...  None the less, Jim began taking pictures, and the owner actually invited us to come closer and had the camel get down on his knees for us.  Linda asked if she could pet the camel, and he let her.  It was a very friendly camel (until later when he'd had enough and tried to bite us both....).

We were able to get some amazing pictures, and it seemed so surreal, we'd seen pictures from this exact view so often, but to actually be here, in Jerusalem, is hard to take in.  Seeing the City of David just south of the Old City where they have done excavations and are uncovering King David's palace.  And looking down on the Temple Mount where the presence of God came to fill the Temple.  Seeing Solomon's Porch and the original entrance to the Temple Mount that was used by so many to come and worship the God of Israel.  What an honor.  And to know that one day there will be another Temple in this place.  Israel is a place like no other in the world - such a past, prophecy being fulfilled in the present, and a promised future that no other nation shares.

Next we decided to scout around the rest of the area instead of heading right back down - after that walk we were going to see all there was to see!!  We travelled to the south side, and then to the east.  We were able to see with a bird's eye view into a small portion of the "West Bank".  Jerusalem is surrounded by territory that others say does not belong to them (the Bible and God say otherwise).  To the far east we were able to see the desert mountains, and even farther what must have been the mountains of Jordan.  We were thrilled that we decided to walk around and see the rest of the Land from such a high elevation (about 2500 feet).

After an afternoon filled with awe, we decided to "walk across town" to our next "appointment" that day.  That took us down the mountain, through the Old City, out Jaffa Gate, and down Jaffa Road.  About another hour walk.

What a full day.  What a blessing to be in His Land.  

Taking ground with each step we take.

PS - Many of you are aware of the continuous "tension" surrounding Israel and her neighbors.  We look upon these tensions as an opportunity to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and all of Israel.  We know that whatever is happening in the news of the day (Egypt, Lebanon, Iran) will not deter us from standing in solidarity with the people of Israel.  We pray for wisdom and understanding for the leaders of this nation and we support any ideas and actions that are in unison with the Word of God.

Please believe with us as we strive to make a difference in this Land and allow ourselves to be used by God, and for Him to continue to give us the privilege of everlasting relationship opportunities.  We know His timing is perfect...

Much Ahava to each of you,

Jim & Linda