It's December!

I know that it has been a while;  things have been quite busy on my end.  Since we've last spoken, I had the opportunity to do some further exploring of the land.  First, I went to Engedi and the Dead Sea about a month ago.  Engedi is where David and his men hid from King Saul.  It's a mountainous area garbed with waterfalls and caves.  A must see!  I also had the opportunity to float in the Dead Sea.  Disclaimer:  Make sure that you do not get the water in your eyes, and beware of sharp rocks.  My experience started out relaxing, but then became quite uncomfortable when a grain of salt from the water got into my eye.  Unable to open my eyes due to the huge burning sensation, I felt my way to the shore and sat on a rock.  Luckily, a man nearby saw me and asked me a question in Hebrew.  The kind man had a bottle of fresh water.  He poured it on my face, flushing my eyes out.  The problem was over!

I also had the chance to go to Galilee with my roommates.  I went to the Mount of Beatitudes.  There is so much lush, green vegetation and beautiful flowers overlooking the Sea of Galilee.  I especially appreciated this, due to the fact that the area I live in has few vegetation, and is mostly desert-like.  After the Mount of Beatitudes, I went to the area in which it was said that Jesus ate with His disciples after His resurrection.  But the highlight of my Galilee trip was the town of Capernaum, where Jesus grew up, as well as the starting point of His ministry.  I visited the ruins of an ancient synagogue, likely one of sites Christ visited.  I also had the opportunity to see the preserved ruins of Peter's house.  Beyond these ruins was a supernatural, peaceful atmosphere of prayer that I felt.  Although the town had several visitors, there were certain areas where I felt alone with God.  The hours went by like minutes for me, because I was just soaking it all in.

Presently, I am preparing my students for midterms.  In two weeks, Christmas vacation will begin.  I definitely have had some challenges (the work load, disgruntled students, etc.), but I can honestly say that God's grace has been keeping me.  I'm grateful that--Lord-willing--I will be finishing up my first semester.

That's All Folks (for now),

Robert