We traveled across the entire country today. We started on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and ended on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. We left on time from the hotel this morning and made our way to Caesarea Maritima. I think that this is a great spot to start a tour. There are so many things to see and it is easy for everyone to immediately learn something to make them a better Bible student.
From there, we traveled up to the top of Mount Carmel to visit the Muhraka Carmelite Monastery. Actually, we didn't go to see the monastery, we went to go to the roof of the monastery. From this spot, and with a Bible in hand turned to I Kings 18, you can read the story of Elijah's contest with the gods of Baal. Reading it from Mount Carmel helps you understand the story so much more.
After lunch we went to the famous site of Megiddo. This city has been built/destroyed/rebuilt so many times that it is hard to keep count. But understanding the strategic importance of the location of the city is important to know. Unfortunately, it was hazy and our view northward across the Jezreel Valley was obscured.
Our final stop of the day was at the Nazareth Village. For teachers of the Bible, I don't know of a more practical place to learn about the customs of First Century Israel. We all took a number of pictures and learned so many new things.
We made an attempt to end our day at the top of Mount Arbel. However, the park had closed 20 minutes before our arrival. Therefore, we made our way to our hotel on the shores of the Sea of Galilee in Tiberias. We enjoyed a nice dinner and are now ready for bed.
Tomorrow we are heading for North Galilee including the sites of Hazor, Dan and Caesarea Philippi.
TOUR UPDATE: As of five minutes ago, our three stranded tour members have caught up with the rest of the group in Tiberias. They are tired, but glad to be here. It will be nice to start out tomorrow with our entire group.