Jericho

We went to Jericho today and visited the small area where the ancient city stood. It's apparent that Joshua and his Israelite army didn't really have to walk all that much when they circumnavigated the city multiple times. We're split into two groups for field trips according to which professor we have for our Old Testament class. As our group sat atop the ruins, Dr. Belnap sent us on our usual scripture chase as he teaches a gospel concept relevant to our surroundings. John the Baptist's testimony of Christ in John chapter 3 slowed the chase.

Jericho

I sit atop an ancient city

Now in ruins;

Melted mud brick slid

Down the crumbled walls.

Life chased it down the slope.

“See life”

Where God said, “Take it.”

“See life”

Where the walls came

Crumbling down.

Scattered stones crunch underfoot

As the soft wind

Makes this cloudy day -

A January day -

Perfect.

Dr. Belnap’s nasally voice

Softly whispers witness

In each ear:

“Believe Him and

See life.”

I look up.

A tiny, white butterfly

Dances on the wind,

Back and forth before

My eyes.

Jerusalem itself is amazing, but I find that I've had more significant experiences when I'm in our building or out in a more remote area. It's more peaceful; less commercial. The heart of the Holy Land is buried under thousands of years of "man" -- concrete and footprints and cheap jewelry. It still beats as strong as ever. My most valuable moments during my time here have been, are, and will be those in which I find the pulse.