A Journey to Israel – Day 4 – Caesarea Philippi

This post was contributed by Dr. Steven Smith:

Day 4 of our Israel adventure took us to the northernmost region of the current state of Israel through the rich agricultural fields of the Hula Valley. Our first destination that day was Caesarea Philippi. Upon arriving we gathered under the shade of large spreading trees to sing worship songs and receive ministry of the word from Pastor Mathew. This site commemorates Peter’s response to Jesus’ question, “Who do you say that I am?” The Holy Spirit gave Peter insight and unction as he testified that, indeed, Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the Living God!

From Caesarea Philippi we headed east to the ancient city of Laish, a 5000-year-old settlement from where Abraham rescued his nephew Lot. Many couples had their pictures taken before the uncovered gate to ancient Laish, through which Abraham may have walked! After the conquest of Canaan, the tribe of Dan captured this region and renamed the city in honor of their patriarch. Hundreds of years later Jeroboam established one of his two shrines to the golden calf here at the northern boundary of Israel. As we roamed the ruins of his worship center, a glance north and west took in the hills of Lebanon where modern Israel’s enemies sit perched. Such a stark reminder of the daily threat they live under!

Heading back south, we next visited Tabgha, the site of several springs on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Most likely it is here that the Risen Christ called out to his dejected disciples at the end of a fruitless night’s fishing. At his command they threw out their nets one more time and took in a tremendous catch of fish. After sharing a meal, Jesus walked that beach with Peter, questioning him regarding his love for Jesus and ultimately restoring and commissioning him to his apostleship. A moment’s reflection at this site brought great comfort to all of us who have sinned, repented, and now long for usefulness in God’s kingdom.

The final stop on that hot and humid day was Kursi on the northeastern edge of the lake. Here we toured the ruins of a 5th century Byzantine monastery built to commemorate Jesus’ deliverance of the two demoniacs. The not too distant body of water that swallowed the demonized pigs reminded us all of the mercy of God in searching us out, preaching the way of salvation to us and granting us faith and deliverance from sin, Satan and death. What a fitting end to a very full day!

 

Dan:

 

 

 

Tabgha:

 

Kursi: