A trip to Israel

This past year Jason and I had the amazing opportunity to go to Israel. We saw Caesarea, Pauls’ house, Egyptian ruins, and countless other breathtaking sites. One day, we went to one of two places archaeologists believe to be the location of the crucifixion and burial. I have to admit, I have never been more disappointed in my life. As we fought the crowds to enter this holy location, all I could see was people pushing and shoving to perform their rituals at certain locations. Walls clad in gold and icons surrounded me, while prayers in different languages flooded my ears. Now please do not misunderstand me- I find great value in liturgy, ritual, and tradition but these people worshiped the place more than the person. Come to find out, priests even got into fist fights over that very location. Look it up on YouTube- priests at the holy sepulcher – it is depressing. I could not help but think He is risen – no longer here! While it is great to see the sights, even enlightening, the sight itself is not something to be worshiped.

After the sepulcher debacle, we travelled to the second sight that is believed to be the location of the crucifixion and burial. This place had no gold, no icons, no crazy tourists, no rituals – just rocks and flowers. We sat in silence and enjoyed communion together. As we walked to the empty tomb, there hung a humble sign that simply said, “He is not here – He is risen.” How refreshing – the high light to an event filled trip. But this experience made me realize we often worship the place rather than the person.

Those priests got into a fist fight over inanimate things – when in reality, they all believed in the same Christ. How many times do we fight and squabble over meaningless things – whether we should sing hymns or praise songs, whether the paint should be red or blue, or how to do any particular thing. Meanwhile, the world watches wondering why we argue over unimportant things if we have such an important message. If we have the Truth, shouldn’t we be so occupied with it that we do not get caught up in petty matters? I know we are human, but we have to remember who we serve – a risen Savior that has the power to change lives! If we keep this at the forefront of our mind, things like the color of the stained glass seem to fade away in comparison. Always remember – He is not here, He is risen!