AMAZING, AMAZING, AMAZING

I’m wondering tonight what amazes you? As you go through your day, do you ever feel really wowed, or really grateful? This week I’ve been amazed by people; some who’ve been dead and gone for thousands of years, and some who are traveling companions for this pilgrimage.

This morning we visited Beth Sheam, the largest active excavation in Israel located about half way between the Sea of Galilee and the Dead Sea. A community of 40,000 from the 2nd century CE – the excavation includes the main street where the business of town occurred, a theatre, public baths, hippodrome, gymnasium and gold-smith shop.

What amazed me most was the creativity of both the builders of the city and the dedication of those who are piecing the city back together. The main street, called “Cardo” (the word from which we get ‘cardiologist’) was so named because it was the heart of the town. Many of the public buildings have intricate mosaic floors or walls not because it was necessary, only because it was uplifting. Those charged with the restoration are meticulously putting this city back together with pieces as small as ¼ inch x ¼ inch.


As has been true for much of our trip, we continue to be amazed by what we are privileged to be seeing. The most used phrases I hear are: “Can you believe this?” or “Isn’t it beautiful!” or “How amazing.” The picture above is of some of my awesome traveling companions. David, Mary and Harry (sorry Linda, you walked out of the picture!) I’m filled with gratitude to be appreciating Israel with them.

For thousands of years, the Creator of the Universe has been inspiring people to creative acts of necessity and beauty. It’s likely that you don’t need to travel 6,000 miles from home to see them. I want to encourage you to find something amazing right where you are today. [Or maybe create it.] But also remember the One who made all that has been made. My heart is full as this day comes to an end and I am truly amazed. I hope you will be too. BLESSINGS AND JOY, THE CELTIC MONK