Traditions have a funny way of morphing over time. Sometimes, the original meanings get lost or adapted to fit new circumstances. They end up taking on a life of their own. Such is the case with the Christmas story.
Sometimes It’s the Little Things
Sometimes it’s the little things that make the most impact. It’s the thing you least expect that touches you in a way you never imagined.
Reflections from Mt. Nebo
Semester #1 is in the books. Classes are done; papers submitted; and finals taken–for better or for worse. It has been an amazing experience.
Visiting the “Holy of Holies”
A few weeks ago, I had a very rare opportunity. I was able to go inside the Dome of the Rock to see the place where the Holy of Holies of the Temple once stood. For those not familiar with the background, let me provide a very brief (and incomplete) background. If you know the …
Four Days in Northern Israel
All incoming students at JUC are required to take “Physical Settings of the Bible.” This is classified as a geography course, yet the content is much richer than simply studying the geography of the land of Israel. The course covers the features of the of the land of the Bible with an emphasis on how …
The Land of Opportunity
Throughout history, God has called His people to be different; to live in a way contrary to what the world thinks is normal.
Celebrating God’s Word
Yesterday capped the end of the High Holy Days celebrations. As one of my professors said, “The Holidays were great, but it’s great that they were!” (it sounds better in Hebrew). After the 8-day festival of Sukkot (Feast of Tabernacles), comes Simchat Torah–“The Joy of the Torah.” The Torah (first five books of the Old …
Do Christians Need Yom Kippur?
I am convicted that the biggest deterrent to Christianity is social media. It’s not from what others say about Christians. It’s about what Christians post on social media says about themselves.
Jerusalem Holy Sites: The Aremenian Quarter
The Old City of Jerusalem is divided into four quarters: the Jewish Quarter, the Muslim Quarter, the Christian Quarter and the Armenian Quarter. Each of these quarters has a unique vibe and personality. On top of that, each of them has their own holy site.
I am trying to get around to each of them to shoot a short video.
Here is my first attempt. This is probably the least recognized of all four holy sites in Jerusalem: the Cathedral of St. James the Apostle.
Explorations in and around Jerusalem
The weekends provide plenty of opportunities to explore the area. These two photo galleries show a taste of the diversity to be found within an hour from Jerusalem. The Mahane Yehuda Market Just a few light rail stops from the Old City is the Mahane Yehuda Market. Commonly known as “The Shuk”, this market boasts …
