The old city of Jerusalem in the foreground with the modern city in the background
The second aspect of Israel that has struck me once again is how much the Bible really does come alive. It sounds cliche but it really is true. I was reading Psalm 68 and 69 yesterday. I'll share a few verses that jumped out in particular:
"May God arise, may His enemies be scattered; may His foes flee before Him. But may the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; may they be happy and joyful." Psalm 68:1,3
"Those who hate me without reason outnumber the hairs of my head; many are my enemies without cause, those who seek to destroy me. I am forced to restore what I did not steal." Psalm 69:4
As I read these words I could feel the truth of it with all the turmoil surrounding Israel. Every country surrounding Israel and the other nations in this region of the world want to see Israel destroyed. They blame Israel for their economic problems, their poverty, and just about any other problem. The US would like to force Israel into land for peace deals that are not realistic, etc. I've read these Psalms many times before but when I read them here in the Land it just has a different meaning. I love to see the faith of the believers here as well. They pray for situations and issues that we Americans can't imagine and with such faith that God will protect and prevail. He always does and it has been proven in this nation over and over. We tell stories in the pulpit of something that happened at Walmart... they tell stories of wearing gas masks in bomb shelters. Definitely two different worlds!
The last thing that I thought might be interesting for you who have taken the time to read this far is that the laws here seem to be more like suggestions. Want to park on the sidewalk, go right ahead. Don't feel like opening up the lid to the dumpster to throw away your trash? No worries, just throw it on the ground. Adopt a highway definitely doesn't exist here! I also have yet to see any type of speed limit signs.
Can we say litter?
Parking on the sidewalk. Why not?
So that concludes a glimpse at my first week in Israel. This week will have a few new adventures. I'll get to see the port in Haifa on the Mediterranean Sea, going to a Jewish wedding, a Shabbat dinner and a local children's home God willing. Until next time!
Christina
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