What began as a simple trip to Jordan turned into one of the most epic and soul-stirring adventures of my life.
I landed in Syria, crossed into Jordan, and then journeyed through Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Jericho. These were more than just places from the Bible, they became lived experiences, felt in my bones and breathed in through the ancient air.
Walking Through Scripture
I had expected to feel emotional, to sense the sacredness of this land, and soak up the history I’ve known through scripture. What I didn’t expect was how profoundly this land would move me, shift me, humble me.
After checking into my hotel and enjoying a delicious lunch, I couldn’t wait. I took off on foot and walked to the Old City of Jerusalem, determined to explore the four quarters, Christian, Armenian, Muslim, and Jewish, on my own, away from the tourist trail.
That spontaneous solo walk gave me a glimpse of everyday life in 2025 Jerusalem, the beauty of coexistence and contrast: ancient stones and modern worries, sacred texts and casual street chatter, minarets, bells, and singing.
Sacred Sites and Holy Moments
The next day, I joined a more in-depth walking tour. It began at the Western Wall, where I paused to pray. I then made my way to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, standing still in the place believed to hold the events of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.
We ascended the Mount of Olives for a panoramic view of Jerusalem, the Holy City laid out like a spiritual map. My guide pointed out key sites and retold stories that echoed through the generations:
- For Christians, Jerusalem is where Jesus died, rose again, and ascended.
- For Muslims, it’s where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ascended from Al-Aqsa Mosque, the third holiest site in Islam.
- For Jews, it is the site of the First and Second Temples, home to the Ark of the Covenant, the Holy of Holies, and now the Western Wall, the most sacred place of prayer.
I walked the Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus walked to His crucifixion. I didn’t expect to weep or sing, but I did both. The weight of that path, the passion, the sacrifice, was indescribable.
Bethlehem – The Birthplace of the King
After a hearty buffet lunch, we drove the short distance to Bethlehem, a place of peace and prophecy. The Church of the Nativity, believed to mark the site of Jesus’ birth, filled me with a quiet reverence. There is something powerful about standing in the place where Heaven touched Earth.
We returned to Jerusalem, and I ended my day with a stroll through the Mahane Yehuda Market. Sweet scents, laughter, and hospitality filled the air. I tasted local sweets, chatted with vendors, and watched life unfold.
Jericho – Echoes of Miracles
On my final day, I made a quick but meaningful stop in Jericho before crossing the King Hussein Bridge back into Jordan. Jericho, one of the oldest cities on earth, is a tapestry of miracles:
- Where Jesus fasted and was tempted in the wilderness.
- Where Zacchaeus climbed the sycamore tree.
- Where Elisha healed the bitter waters with salt.
- And where the walls fell to the sound of trumpets.
- Every rock, every tree, every step whispered miracle, memory, and majesty.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
I left the Holy Land reluctantly. I had hoped to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane, visit Al-Aqsa Mosque properly, and spend time in a few museums. But that night, conflict erupted between Israel and Iran, and I knew I had crossed back into Jordan just in time.
I was safe, but emotionally shaken.
Even now, I think of Bethlehem and Jericho, towns that lean heavily on Christian tourism for survival. The sharp decline in visitors has deeply hurt the locals, and my heart ached for them.
Gratitude in the Midst of Chaos
I am forever grateful for the window of peace I walked through. I know many may never have that same chance. I pray for lasting peace, for a solution that preserves human dignity, and for healing over a land soaked in tears, triumph, and tragedy.
As always, Chidumaga, I never walk alone.
And this journey… I walked it with God.
Final Reflection
May God touch the hearts and minds of all those involved in brokering peace.
May justice, compassion, and wisdom lead the way.
May every soul in Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Jericho find safety, joy, and rest.
Have you been to the Holy Land? Would you like to go?
