We began our day on Tuesday, November 11 in Haifa, Carmel and Megiddo before moving on to Nazareth. Jesus grew up in Nazareth and, interestingly, it is predominately Arab today, but one of the largest Christian populations in Israel. The Nazareth Village is a recreated village that replicates what it might have looked like in Jesus’ day, and he played in the neighborhood and worked with His Father. Using live people and animals to demonstrate life in Nazareth, our guests were immersed in the culture of ancient Nazareth.

Below: the olive harvester, the sheepherder (with one of our tour guests!), an olive press, a potter, a carpenter, and a weaver…all at the Nazareth Village.

Our final stop was the humanitarian distribution center and church pastored by my dear brother in the Lord, Pastor Saleem Shalash. He is an Arab pastor who loves the Lord and leads his congregation to serve the community of Nazareth (both Jews and Arabs), and around the world. In fact, Pastor Saleem is currently out of the country, so we missed a blessing in seeing him.

But Pastor Saleem’s son was there and described all the fantastic ministry they do. Home of Jesus the King Church operates a humanitarian center, distributing food, clothing and everyday living needs of both Jews and Arabs alike. Currently, they are preparing 4,000 gift bags (a toy and candy) to be distributed to children at an upcoming Christmas parade. What a blessing to see the ministry live and in person. (Learn more about them here.)

Below: Pastor Saleem’s son, Solieman, showing us their latest food box project, group photo at Home of Jesus the King Church

It was a long day, putting us at our next hotel after dark. We’re at a nice hotel situated right on the Sea of Galilee, so our guests have a blessed surprise when they wake to a sunrise over the Galilee!

Tomorrow we head north to Tel Dan, Caesarea Philippi and Ben Tal upon the Golan Heights. We have got an interesting day ahead, so stay tuned!

Shalom!