May 30 Jordan River, Qumran, Genesis Land

May 30, Monday

After spending an enjoyable weekend at Ron Beach Hotel along the Sea of Galilee or the Kennaret as it is now called, we departed southbound along Israel’s eastern border. Arriving at Kaser El Yehud, a baptismal site on the Jordan River provided a first time sight of Israeli soldiers on one side of the Jordan and Jordanian soldiers on the other. 

This was a very special experience because six of our family were baptized in the same river that Jesus had been. For us it was evidence of desire to go deeper with God. Prayer for our family, filming, and worshipping through dance made it very meaningful. Costas spoke of worship being akin to digging wells. We’re not responsible for the water in the well, only to dig. There is great value in continuing to dig beyond the first bit of water so that more water can be held. The well diggers are the musicians who do the work even if other just stand around and watch.

Singing to the Israel Defense Force Soldiers at the Jordan River

The most hot and dusty stop followed with teaching and photos at the site of where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered at Qumran. The great honor the Jews have placed on the Torah was very evident. 

Karilyn pointing at the possible location of discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls

The Dead Sea is vast although it is shrinking. We observed a massive program to retain the water for tourist hotels along the Sea. The most exciting things was seeing the fresh water reeds and other vegetation growing where the water has receded. This hot and dusty experience was rewarded with a float and mud bath in the Dead Sea, the lowest place on Earth. Our children really are bonding with the other 5 young people on our journey.

Mud bath in the Dead Sea

A delightful and insightful experience awaited us for supper as we rode camels to “Abraham’s” bedouin tent. Those camel saddles potentially cause nasty bruises, as Kristi can attest. Abraham’s gracious hospitality included 3 courses and dessert which we enjoyed while lounging on mats around low tables! The desert surrounded us as we watched a quick sunset.