The day following our entrance into Jerusalem was Shabbat (Sabbath), so most Jewish sights were closed. Thus, we spent the day enjoying other adventures. Bethlehem, though only 6 miles from Jerusalem, is a predominately Muslim city in the West Bank. There, we scheduled a meet up with a fantastic Palestinian pastor, Ziyad Bannuora. Pastor Ziyad loves the Lord and shared with us as we overlooked the shepherd’s fields where lambs were raised for Temple sacrifices. Is it any wonder that Jesus, our good shepherd, was born in Bethlehem!

It was a fantastic start to the day, and the day only grew better! From Bethlehem, we headed to the area of the Elah Valley, where David faced off against Goliath! However, we were treated to a fantastic vantage point overlooking the valley. Spread before us was the entire topography including the two opposing hills where Philistines and Jews faced off. In between was the valley in which David went out with his sling to gather 5 smooth stones from a creek bed before downing Goliath with a perfectly placed stone between the eyes!

There it was…all laid out! From our vantage point on Tel Azekah, and due to Aly’s (our guide) fantastic narrative, our minds’ eyes recreated the Biblical account! But what was just as touching was the fact Tel Azekah is a very popular gathering place for Jewish families on Shabbat! We got to experience authentic Jewish culture as Ima (mother) and Abba (father) enjoyed a day of family fun with their children. Seemingly every moment is a teaching moment in Jewish families and to see the interaction was such a bonus!

It was at this spot on this day that the magical moment happened with our group. Every trip seems to have a magical moment where tour guests become family, and as we shared a picnic lunch in this marvelous setting, our group was melded together as family forever! The group still remains in contact with one another! It brings joy to my soul!

So, picture yourself in the photo above looking over the Valley of Elah! On this Sabbath day (Saturday) I hope this lookback blesses you just as that Sabbath on Tel Azekah blessed us!

Can Anything Good Come from the West Bank? You Decide!