The Jordan River

OK, I'm going to go back in time a few days... any hopes that I had of making this chronological are just unrealistic. This is a blog, right? Not an orderly historical account? OK, enough nitpickiness, here we go!

These pictures are taken where the Jordan flows into the Sea of Galilee at it’s North end. I like this spot because it is not commercialized like so many other spots in Israel. I understand the commercialization… it is a major source of many people’s living and a boon to the State of Israel. At the same time, it is nice to find those quiet places where, at least in the imagination, it’s not hard to see the 1st century life that Jesus lived. Jesus walks beside still waters… and in concrete jungles and smoke choked cities.

The banks of the river here are lush and green, even in heat of summer. There is a small turn off leading to an old concrete and metal bridge crossing the river. It is blocked off at both ends by large concrete blocks so only foot traffic can cross. Large wooden timbers span the metal frame of the bridge, which no doubt made it a bit of an adventure to cross even in its day. High trees frame a spot of shade and repose, and a good sized pool has formed here that would be great for an occasional dip. And, lest we forget that Israelis are very human as well, it appears to be a bit of a “party spot” on occasion. Jesus brings quiet peace to every human who opens their heart to Him… whether partying, broken prodigal or proud Pharisee willing to humble themselves, or weary pilgrim on the road. Love you Lord….