I woke up a bit early to capture the sunrise over the Sea of Galilee. Oh my goodness- our Lord does not disappoint! It was so stunning and breathtaking! What a way to start the day!
This morning our day began with a trip to Cana. This is the location of the first miracle of Jesus and the beginning of his public ministry. We were blessed to celebrate Mass here, and the four married couples on our trip renewed their vows, which was awesome! While at the church, we were able to see one of the jugs that the waiters at the wedding used to fill with water, that Jesus then changed into wine. We reflected on the goodness of God and how He always desires to continue to pour out His graces and blessings upon us. This church held special significance for me, as Adam and I are preparing for marriage. I was able to pray in a special way for the Lord to lavish blessings upon our marriage and family. We also reflected on how Mary leads us to Her Son, Jesus.
Outside of the church where the wedding feast at Cana took place!
Jug, originally used for ceremonial Jewish cleansing rituals, that the waiters used to fill with water. Jesus turned this water into wine!
Couples from our group renewing their wedding vows.
Lighting a candle and praying for our upcoming marriage and family!
After Cana, we journeyed to Nazareth. Here, we visited the Basilica of the Annunciation. We first saw ruins of Joseph's house and workshop, which are in the crypt of the church. We had a good amount of time spend in prayer, and we reflected on Joseph's prudence and his need and dependence on God, just like us!
Ruins of St Joseph's house and workshop!
We then walked right next door to the other church, which is where Saints Ann and Joachim (Mary's parents) lived. It was here that the angel appeared to Mary and asked her to be the the mother of God. Her yes to doing God's will is why we, today, have the opportunity to go to heaven and be with her and her Son for all eternity. It was so amazing to see the site where the angel appeared. Here we were able to join in praying the Angelus prayer with the Franciscan Friars who take care of the church. It was a beautiful liturgy. I also was able to light a candle for my mom in this church on the day of her surgery. (God answers prayers! Her surgery went better than expected and she didn't have to stay overnight, which was the original plan. Thank you Mary for interceding for her!) In the basilica, countries throughout the world have donated art depicting Our Lady. It was beautiful to see the different representations of Our Lady. My favorite was the one from Singapore, depicting children on earth and in Heaven praying to her!
Lighting a candle for my mom!
Art from Singapore depicting Our Lady and the children!
Mary's home (behind the altar) where the angel Gabriel appeared!
After lunch, we journeyed for quite sometime to the mountain where Jesus gave the sermon on the mount. Here, we were met with a paradise of sorts. The flora and fauna was beautiful in the area, overlooking the Sea of Galilee. Our guide led us to reflect on how Jesus used the Beatitudes to call us to a higher standard of living. We trekked down to the cave where Jesus went alone to pray. On our way down, we saw the spot where the multiplication of loaves and fishes occurred.
Overlooking the Sea of Galilee from the Mount of Beatitudes (photo credit to Megan Pacitti)
Praying and reflecting on the Beatitudes
Church of the Beatitudes
Cave where Jesus went alone to pray
Our day ended at the bottom of the hill after the trek down from the cave. It opened to a road which lead to a path that took us to the only waterfall in Israel. This waterfall, called Seven Springs, is a natural spring where Peter and Andrew cleaned their nets after fishing. It was here that Jesus called them to drop their nets and become fishers of men. It was such a lovely spot to spend time in the water, viewing the Sea of Galilee, and marveling at God's beauty.
Admiring the waterfall!
Sea of Galilee in the background!
Jesus, thank you for the gift of this day. Thank you for allowing me to trace your footsteps and visit the places you ministered and taught at. Jesus, may I strive to always follow your footsteps and draw others, especially my students, closer to you. Amen
Blessings,
Julie
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