Beer Sheba National Park, Mizpe Ramon (Negev Desert), Bethlehem Bible College (7/27)

Today we traveled to the Negev Desert to see the geological wonder, Mizpe Ramon. On our way we stopped to see the ruins of Beer Sheba (Genesis 26:23-25). I was very impressed at this former city located next to a well. We were able to walk through the old stone gates which had double walls so that if the first was breached that the inhabitants could still defend the city. Beer Sheba was located on a hill which allowed good visibility in all directions. There was good city planning in its layout, especially in regards to its water system which was a great strength during times of war. It even had a secret escape tunnel which we were able to walk through. Pretty neat to experience a real piece of history.

After our brief excursion we loaded back into our vehicle and resumed our journey to the desert. It was a long journey (several hours) with little to see out of our window other than the endless hills and peaks of the Israeli wilderness, void of life and vegetation. Occasionally, we would see some weeds or bushes tucked in amongst the rocks and gravel, but it looked to be a bleak and ominous country.

Finally we reached our destination - Mizpe Ramon. A geological formation one could never hope to capture with the lens (I suggest that you google it). It was quite the sight and I wished we could have had the opportunity to do some hiking and exploring as well. A herd of Ibex wandered by near to where we were standing, so we took some up-close pictures.

Then began the arduous journey back to Bethlehem... (riding in a car for 3 or 4 hours is not easy for me to do). Once we arrived at Bethlehem we stopped at Bethlehem Bible College for a presentation about some of Israel's history and the West Bank along with how that has impacted the lives of Palestinian Christians. It was a fascinating presentation which opened my eyes to many of the struggles the people in this land have endured. I think it would be amazing to spend a semester continuing my Seminary studies as a student at Bethlehem Bible College!

Worn and weary we returned for our nightly meal and much needed rest. After a full stomach, cool cleansing shower and a few emails, I drifted off to sleep content and hopeful - inspired by God's handiwork and His promises for the future.