Overlooking Jerusalem

The Mount of Olives is a very beautiful, peaceful place perched on a hillside overlooking the Temple Mount and Jerusalem’s strong stone walls. Jesus was on the Mount of Olives three times during the last week of His life, which we call Passion Week. In the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mt. of Olives, Jesus gathered His disciples and separated Himself to pray as He prepared for the cruel death He knew He must endure because of His love for the people of the world. We had reserved a portion of the Mount for our own personal prayer time amongst the olive trees with Jerusalem spread out beneath us—some of the best prayer time I have had. As we walked in the larger Mount of Olives area, we passed twisted and gnarled olive trees with massive trunks that were well over 2,000 years old. In other words, they were there when Jesus prayed. Touching!

Mount of Olives

Mount of Olives

Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives when one of His disciples, Judas, betrayed Him with a kiss for 30 pieces of silver.

Church of All Nations

The Church of All Nations is particularly striking with its twelve domes and beautiful mosaic work. It commemorates that dark day when Jesus prayed and was arrested. It houses the stone on which some believe Jesus leaned against to pray.

Mosaic, Church of All Nations

Ceiling, Church of All Nations

From there we headed to the Food Market filled with spices and fruits, meat, fish and small restaurants. Fun! Then, we headed for more Jerusalem ambiance at the pedestrian mall—music, outside cafes and shops of all kinds. More fun! And then, just like that, our journey was coming to an end. Our evening banquet was filled with joy and thank you’s, especially for our guide and driver who were both awesome!

Jerusalem Street Market

In the end, this truly was not a trip or tour, certainly not a vacation. It was a pilgrimage. God was good! WEG