Saturday, April 18, 2009

Wilderness Wanderings

Sorry to have missed yesterday. Not good availability. We traveled most of the day working our way from Cairo down to The Sinai –basically traveling the path that the Israelites took when they left the Land of Goshen and fled Egypt. We went to the traditional sites that Exodus 15-17 details: The springs at Marah, the Wilderness of Sin where they first received manna, and the site where Israel defeated Amelek. Now let me tell you – when Scripture refers to “wilderness” it is talking dry, barren, rocky, deserted land. I have a whole new appreciation for what the people of God experienced.

This morning began at 1:00 a.m. for 28 of us who braved the earliness of the hour to tackle an ascent of Mount Sinai – the site where it is believed that Moses received the 10 Commandments. Probably the hardest hike I have I have ever taken. 6+ straight hours of hiking. The first 4 uphill. You will see some pictures below of what we saw when we got to the top. We made it to the top around 5:00 a.m. – just in time to watch the sun rise. Unbelievable!

We spent most of the rest of the day (from 10:00 a.m. on) on the bus driving to Petra, Jordan. Got in tonight about 8:30 – a long day but a good day. A few folks are experiencing some ill effects so pray that God will guard our bodies as we head to Israel tomorrow.

5 comments:

  1. Thanks so much for making the effort to stay in touch and for the great pictures. Congratulations to the hardy hikers! I am very impressed. Will say a prayer for you all and especially for those not feeling so well. Take care.

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  2. We enjoyed your pictures and updates. Got home from Haiti and could hardly wait to check the blog. Can't believe you hiked 6 hours- amazing- was it anything like the Fondwa hike? We will be praying for you all- esp. for restored health for those that are sick. Can't wait to hear about more adventures. Ron & Jan Williams

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  4. Hi Gwen Tilley. I have enjoyed reading about the trip and especially enjoyed all the pictures posted. It's great seeing you on that camel. I hope all will be feeling better soon. I can't wait to talk with you when you return. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

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  5. What a grand opportunity to "walk where Jesus walked".....enjoy every single minute of it...cannnot wait to hear about it..alhtough I won't be able to because Kenz has a soccer game vs Riverside that night, so hopefully can watch the video!!

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