Sea of Galilee to Jerusalem

Getting up to watch the sunrise on the shores of the Sea of Galilee each morning at our Kibbutz, was a definite highlight for the early risers of our group. After packing up we all wrestled with mixed emotions of leaving such peaceful serenity at this rural setting. At the same time, we were as giddy as little children knowing that this was the day that we were "ascending to Jerusalem."

We started our day at the Gilboa Springs where God chose 300 warriors for Gideon and hearing our tour guide Arie's personal testimony while serving as an Israeli Army Commander in the war that took place in Yom Kippur in the 1960's. An extreme test of faith for him whereas God was going to go before him and have victory over a grim situation. He too faced unsurmountable odds of trusting God and by doing so, a miracle happened in his life that affected the lives of so many that day. Going forward, reading about Gideon in the book of Judges will never be the same again! Truth combined with a personal testimony brings the Word to life in our present day reality.

We visited the most amazing excavation site that has been completely revealed to the public in the last 20 or so years: Beit She'an. Learning about the history of this Roman centre (of about the 4th century) and it's impact on Judaism at that time, was dumbfounding! Paganism invaded both Judaism and Christianity with the stark reality of sinful idolatry of it's time. We couldn't help but personalize it in our day and age once again as the temptations are the same: greed, vanity, pride, sexual immorality, and acceptance of every other belief system that the world offers. It is apparent that ruins are uncovered for God to speak to us as we appropriate the lessons and consequences for sin. Thankfully, we serve the One who can forgive all sin and make us as "White as snow". (thankful too that we don't have to experience that word picture literally this week as the temps are in the 80's-90's this week!)

In preparation for our tour, we all had the opportunity to study Beth Moore's Psalms of Ascent "Stepping Up" 8 week Bible study. As we ascended to Jerusalem, we shared stories of how God was speaking to us thus far while listening to the beautiful music of a local musician who wrote a song for each of the Psalms of Ascent as found in chapters 120-134. As we entered the Holy city of Jerusalem, our hearts were incredibly moved as we ventured up to a location overlooking the picturesque panoramic view of the old city. Our guide surprised us with a special blessing as he welcomed us to Jerusalem! We look forward to our last 5 days in Israel staying in this city like no other...(What does tomorrow bring? Our next stops include Bethlehem, Mount of Olives, the Wailing wall and more...)

Mount Tabor to the Jordan River...

Last day in the inner Galilee covering more of the inner region and visiting mount Tabor and Zippori, a fun visit to a chocolate factory in a local Kibbutz. We ended the day at the Jordan River with three of our tour ladies being baptized!, Reading through the significance of the transfiguration of Jesus (Mark 8), was very moving knowing that Peter grasped who Jesus really was. Mount Tabor was also site of Deborah, the prophetess who was appointed as a judge over Israel and was victorious as she led the Israelites in Battle and the land experienced great piece over the land. We compared her leadership and the outcome of her using her gifts and abilities for God's glory to the evil ramifications of another woman in the Old Testament who used her influence for destruction: i.e. Jezebel. Praying for our own lives to reflect godly influence in our families, churches and communities was the desire of our hearts...

At Zippori, we toured ancient ruins of a Synagogue that was built shortly after the destruction of the Temple. The mosaics in the Synagogue told the stories of drastic shifts and compromise.It was amazing how quickly they adopted paganism, secularism, and mythology to appease the people. It showed us how we too as a church can so easily adopt worldly customs and false teachings and water down the truth of God's word. By doing so, the enemy distracts God's people and those searching for the truth! After that eye opening venture, we had a lovely lunch and had a sweet treat at a unique Israeli Chocolate factory at one of the many Kibbutz's in Israel.

The major highlight of the day was going down to the local baptism site on the Jordan River on the Yardenite. With great joy, we celebrated with Ruth, Pamela and Sheri and Sandra as they affirmed/ reaffirmed their faith in Christ. Just as Jesus was immersed in these same waters, standing by these women as they too were immersed... gave us all a greater sense of the meaning of Baptism. We look forward to connecting with these sisters in faith after our tour to encourage them in their call. Restoration begins in the heart, extends to the family and seeks to infiltrate the world! As our Father in Heaven sent Jesus to the world for His unique call and purpose, He too sends us with a call to use our lives for His glory and purposes. With radiant faces, this most definitely will be a faith marker they will not soon forget!

"...how beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" Romans 10:15 (Isaiah 52:7)

Journey around the Sea of Galilea

We spent our first night at the Kibbutz hotel on the shores of the Sea of Gallilee... and the hospitality is just lovely here. The Jewish people we've met so far are gracious and are thrilled for us visiting their country. With the help of our excellent tour guide Arie, the scriptures come alive at each site we visit! First stop? The Mount of Beatitudes where Jesus gave his famous "Sermon on the Mount". People from all around the world were there on the hillside and in the church sanctuary preaching the Word of God and singing Praises to Him. Our hearts were full as we envisioned Jesus ministering there.Ceasarea Philippi was most impacting as we reflected on Jesus asking of His disciples "who do you say that I am?" Also at this site, we had a visual impact moment knowing it was at this site Jesus said to Peter.."Upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hell will not prevail.." referring to FAITH in Him. It was at this site, seeing the cave where pagan sacrifices were made to the god of Pan... the cave was literally seen as the "Gates of Hell", Jesus taught that His kingdom would have dominion over all.

Other stops? Tel Dan, Capernaum, Tagba (location of Jesus feeding the 5000) and the breathtaking boat ride on the Sea of Galilea. Everyday is an adventure, a journey of faith! We even bumped into the tour group from Breakforth Canada at Tel Dan which was so exciting as we recognized some other fellow Canadians making their pilgrimage to the Holy Land as well:) Tomorrow we have three of our ladies getting baptized in the Jordan River and we spent some time hearing their stories of faith and their testimony of Jesus at work in their lives! The rest of us will join them in celebration with reaffirmation of our own faith in Christ as well! SHALOM!

p.s. (The internet is not strong here at our hotel- so our daily posts may not be long. Will try and post each day but will add more when back home!)

Journey from Joppa to Sea of Galilee

We began our journey today from the old old city of Joppa where we read the story of Jonah. It was here that he fled from God. We sat of top of the hill overlooking the sea knowing we were embarking on a journey of ancient times. It was also in this place where Peter had an encounter with God.  We know that as we focus on Christ this trip we too will encounter God.


At Ceasarea we saw the remains of the incredible amphitheater and castle remains that Herod had built. It was here that the Apostle Paul was also taken to stand trial before continuing on in his ministry and he also embarked on his missionary journey from this place on the Mediterranean.



On Mount Carmel, we read from the passage of 1 Kings 18:20-46 envisioning Elijah confronting the prophets of Baal and his stance in God being the One True God.

Walking through the Old Nazareth Village set in the time of Jesus 2,000 years ago was a definite highlight for our whole group.

We've arrived ....Beautiful Tel Aviv!

Well after 27 hours of travel, 5 airports and being escorted through Queens New York in black suv's...we've arrive in Tel Aviv 3 hours later than expected. But we are happy, safe, a little tired....but oh so excited to begin this incredible journey!  
We had such a lovely Shabbat meal once we arrived at the Herrods Hotel. After we went for a lovely walk beside the sea watching the waves of the Mediterranean wash up against the rocks. Tomorrow we venture off to biblical sites that will lead us to a deeper understanding of Jesus our Rock of salvation:) We will post a few highlights from each days journey here with you...Shalom!

Stepping Up - A Pilgrimage to Jerusalem

"I raise my eyes toward the mountains. Where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.He will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber. Indeed, the Protector of Israel does not slumber or sleep. The LORD protects you; the LORD is a shelter right by your side. The sun will not strike you by day, or the moon by night. The LORD will protect you from all harm; He will protect your life. The LORD will protect your coming and going both now and forever."   Psalm 121:1-8  (HCSB)

 The words to this Psalm have become very dear to the ten of us who are preparing to leave for the Holy Land in a few days. We've recently completed the amazing Bible study by Beth Moore called "Stepping Up" and what a journey it's been!

 Psalms 120-134, known as the Psalms of Ascent, were sung by the Jews, the pilgrims, on their way to Jerusalem to attend the Feasts of the Lord three times a year. They speak of a personal pilgrimage and have incredible meaning each step of the way. Each one speaks directly into our own individual lives, just as they spoke into the lives of those pilgrims long ago.

This study has been the perfect preparation for our own pilgrimage to the Holy Land and for our own personal visit to Jerusalem. The study has taken us to many places in our own individual lives where we have needed to seek the Lord facedown and on our knees. He has spoken to each of us on this journey through these Scriptures and has moved our hearts in profound ways. Where does our help come from? Yes, from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth! He IS the only One who can sustain us, forgive us, save us, shelter and protect us. 

"I rejoiced with those who said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD."  Our feet are standing within your gates, Jerusalem...go up to give thanks to the name of the LORD...Pray for the peace of Jerusalem...may there be peace within your walls...because of my brothers and friends, I will say, "Peace be with you."  Psalm 122  (HCSB)

This is one of the locations that I (Lisa Braun) look forward to being at the most, as these would have been the southern steps that the pilgrims would have taken to walk up into the Temple area, bringing their sacrifices and to worship the LORD. My eyes shimmer with tears as precious memories flood my heart and mind of standing in this place, as it shows in the pictures above. Now that we've studied through these Psalms of Ascent, it will be even more meaningful to walk up these steps once again. I have read these psalms on these stairs before, as you see in the picture, but oh my, now they have come to have so much more meaning. This indeed has been a personal pilgrimage for me journeying through these Psalms, but even more so, this 4th trip to Jerusalem I already anticipate to be the most personal pilgrimage yet as I am going without a family member.

"Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion. It cannot be shaken; it remains forever.  Jerusalem--the mountains surround her, And the LORD surrounds His people, both now and forever....Do what is good, LORD, to the good, to those whose hearts are upright....Peace be with Israel."  Psalm 125  (HCSB)

Even though there are ten of us who will be going on this physical pilgrimage to the Holy Land in a few days, there have been over 100 women who have just completed this study of the Psalms of Ascent. Now that we've studied them, many of those women sure wish they were also coming with us on this journey! It will be such an incredible blessing to come back and share with them what we have experienced!

• Pamela, who is coming on this tour, says she is "excited to see the mountains surrounding Jerusalem! Ever since reading and working through Psalm 125, I have a mental picture of God's hands surrounding me as I trust in Him."  


• Sherri tells me that she is "excited to see the terrain the pilgrims traveled on foot to attend all of the feasts year after year and also to see the evergreen tree growing next to the palm tree."  Israel is definitely a land of diversity, color and all sorts of vegetation...such a beauty to behold and see.


• Alice says that it's "The tabernacle study that is the one that gets her excited. The connection between the history and symbolism of the old and new testaments through to the connection to Christ now is what makes her want to experience the land where the history was lived out."  I'm so very excited to experience this trip with these wonderful ladies!!  It'll be life-changing!     

"For the LORD has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His home; "This is my resting place forever; I will make MY home here because I have desired it...I have prepared a lamp for My anointed one. I will clothe his enemies with shame, but the crown he wears will be glorious."  Psalm 132:14, 17b-18  (HCSB)

These verses thrill me because they speak of how God has chosen Jerusalem as the Holy City for all time. He has CHOSEN it! There's no place on earth quite like Jerusalem and we know that His Son Jesus journeyed there himself to worship His Father at the Temple...he walked those streets, stepped up those steps and taught at the Temple. One day, when He will reign from that city once again, His crown will be absolutely glorious!!  Oh how exciting!

For those women that have been through this journey of the Psalms, their relationship with the LORD has definitely taken a 'step up' from where it was when we started. How we all desire to follow God and to deepen our relationship with Him.

    Psalm 128:1,4-5 (HCSB) says "How happy is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in His ways! ...the man who fears the LORD will be blessed. May the LORD bless you from Zion, so that you will see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life."  

Perhaps, one of the most meaningful Psalms to me has been 133 as it speaks of "living in harmony". Having led women's Bible studies for over 20 years, so many dear sisters in the LORD have come across my path...all from different walks of life, different backgrounds, different church denominations, etc. We've all come together on a weekly basis and have studied the Word of God together, regardless of where we came from. What a blessing!  We all attend different churches and we all grew up in very different home settings, but we can all come together and worship the Lord and study His Word! "How wonderful it is, how pleasant, when brothers live together in harmony!" (NLT)  And then in the HCSB version the Psalm ends with these words "For there the LORD has appointed the blessing--life forevermore."  Oh how God desires unity and harmony among His people! The joy of harmonious relationships!   That is also what the ministry of Women's Journey of Faith is all about too...bringing women together from all walks of life to worship our One True God together in unity and harmony! How "good and pleasant" it is! We are to be a united family of God and one day we will live together with our Lord Jesus Christ in the Heavenly Jerusalem!

I leave you with this blessing from Psalm 134, the last one of the Psalms of Ascent...but as we stand inside the gates of Jerusalem, we will say this blessing over you as well!  Shalom!

"Now praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD...lift up your hands in the holy place, and praise the LORD! May the LORD, Maker of heaven and earth, bless you from Zion."

*We will be blogging about this exciting tour to Israel each day! Check back for updates and visit our tour site to view the itinerary of our journey to the Holy Land! 

Journeying Through the Tabernacle

   The past 10 weeks I've been on an incredible journey together with about 70 other women. Some of these women have been to Israel with me and some will be coming to Israel with me. We've been going through a study called "A Women's Heart - God's Dwelling Place." It's a study by Beth Moore about the Old Testament Tabernacle and how it speaks to our own hearts being the Temple of the Holy Spirit today. We have all learned so much! It has been great preparation for me for this return trip to Israel. Each study we've done has had so many precious nuggets to glean from, hide in our hearts and apply to our own individual lives. This study has been no different and yet has seemed to be the most life-changing for many of the women.

 Exploring each piece of the treasured items in the Tabernacle to show how they related to Jesus Christ was monumental and absolutely life-changing! What made this study even more special to me was that I had an incredible opportunity to walk through a replica of the Tabernacle at the Crossroads Centre in Burlington, Ontario when we were only 3 weeks into the study. My son was leaving for Bible school in England and my hubby and I travelled to Ontario with him first to go through this with him before he left us for a time. How special that was! 

 Each piece speaks so much about our Lord Jesus Christ! The Door to the Tabernacle is Jesus as John 10:9 tells us. Jesus is the Bread of the Presence (John 6:35); he is the Altar of Incense (Hebrews 7:25); he is the Mercy Seat (Romans 3:25-26); Jesus is the Basin (John 13:8b) and the Lampstand (John 8:12); he is the Veil (Hebrews 10:20) and yes, Jesus is the Tabernacle (John 1:14). How GLORIOUS!

   As I walked through that Tabernacle with the 'High Priest' giving us the tour, it brought me back to Israel when we had a tour through the Temple Institute. Here we saw the High Priest's garments as well as the Temple Assistant's behind glass cabinets. Also displayed were the utensils that have been preserved and remade for the 3rd Temple that is yet to come. Seeing the paintings that were hanging on the walls in this place to show us what the Tabernacle must have looked like was so very moving. Seeing Aaron the High Priest offering incense to the Lord with the Lampstand behind him and the veil in front of him. 

    As I had walked through this Tabernacle in Ontario, the song Take Me into the Holy of Holies  kept singing over again and again in my spirit. I was so in awe!

    The most amazing point of this study was the ending. Beth explained how the Glory of the Lord had been in the Tabernacle and then transferred to the Solomon's Temple after it was built. God wanted the Tabernacle built so that He could dwell among His people. That was His greatest desire, to be among His people. His Glory filled the Tabernacle then it filled Solomon's Temple, but did not stay there. Israel kept following the pagan gods and defiling themselves and God's Glory left the Temple. The last time it was seen was over the mountain east of Jerusalem - the Mount of Olives.  

  The Glory of God did not enter Herod's Temple until Mary and Joseph took Jesus to be dedicated. Jesus came in man form to this earth but he was the Glory of God that entered the Temple each time he walked through the doorway. He would've walked up those southern steps that the public took to go up to the Temple Mount. After 3 years of ministry, Jesus was crucified on the cross, died and rose after 3 days. He was on the Mount of Olives with his disciples when he began rising to heaven and God hid Jesus from their view with a pillar of cloud. Fifty days after he went to heaven, on the day of Pentecost, everyone in the Upper Room was filled with the the Glory of God, the Holy Spirit. 

     God's Glory is now present in every believer through the Holy Spirit. The next time that the Glory of God will fully appear is when Jesus returns and his foot steps onto the Mount of Olives (Zechariah 14). It will split in two and Jesus will walk down through the valley and enter Jerusalem once again through the Eastern Gate to reign from the Temple.  Oh to imagine this all in my mind and awaiting that day when Jesus will return, I can't wait! But even more, standing in these places and picturing this all happening is so incredible! Doesn't it just make you want to journey to the Holy Land of Israel with us? Lord willing, in 3 months time we will be doing just that.