Bethlehem

WOW!  What a day!  Each time I think things could not get any better, this trip surprises me!  My entire approach to the Scriptures and my relationship with Jesus has changed more in 5 days than in the last 40 years combined!

THE TOP TEN FOR TODAY:

#10 - The Church of the Nativity - It is an incredibly ornate Church.  We stood in line and were overwhelmed by the beauty of this Church.

#9 - The Shepherd's Cave - This is the spot where the angels announced to the shepherds that the Messiah had been born.  We were treated with a historical explanation of the shepherd and his job.  I will NEVER approach this story the same.

# 8 - The Nigerian Pilgrims singing at Mass - Our group was treated today with watching the end of the Mass for the Nigerian pilgrims.  Their love for Jesus was so real and their love for worship was authentic.  The universality of the Church was on display in a big way.

#7 - "I Need Love" by L. L. Cool J - This song was the song that my wife and I used to listen to while we were dating many years ago (She was 14, I was 16.).  I have missed my bride often these past few days and this song came up today on my shuffle on my ipod.  I didn't know I had the song and haven't heard it in years.  I really love Ashley...

#6 - The man at the gift shop and his plea for each of us to commit to pray daily for peace in Israel.  Please take a few minutes right now to pray for peace in this beautiful, holy place.

#5 - The family at dinner - Our group had another great dinner, which included a concert by a local band.  The music was super entertaining and even included dancing.  There was a family at dinner who had three little girls who joined in and danced with our group.  It was one girl's birthday and we even sang "Happy Birthday" to her.  I will not disclose those who danced, but it was a pretty long list.

#4 - Riding to Bethlehem and listening to Matt Mahar's song "Empty and Beautiful".  Buy this song now and listen to it.  You will be moved!

#3 - Praying on my knees in the cave where JESUS was born - My whole life will be different as a result of this experience.  I felt so small, but so loved by God.

#2 - Touching the exact spot where Jesus was born - As I reached out my hand to touch the spot, I noticed I was shaking.  All I could do was touch the spot and pray for my wife.  I have never known a person who lives more like Mary than her...

#1 - Mass in the Church of St. Catherine of Alexandria - Beautiful Church and another challenging homily from Father Justin.  At times, I find myself so taken up with/in God on this trip that I lose track of the world around me.  I think this is how we are supposed to live our lives.

PRAYER INTENTION
Cave where Jesus was born - Mrs. King's intention, My family.
The spot where Jesus was born - My wife.
The Shepherd's Cave - Lisa Shepherd and Family, who else!
I also prayed today for all who read this blog.