The Holy Land. Whether or not you’re a believer, there’s a reason several cultures are constantly trying to take dominion in this very unique place.
Walking Where Scripture Comes Alive: My Journey Through the Holy Land
There are places in this world that call to your soul before your feet even touch the soil. The Holy Land is one of them.
There are places in the world that spark awe with their beauty. And then there are places that stir something deeper — something eternal. The Holy Land is not just a destination. It’s a calling.
Whether or not you consider yourself a person of faith, there’s an undeniable energy in Israel — something ancient and powerful woven into the land itself. It’s a crossroads of history, culture, and spiritual legacy. I had the incredible privilege of experiencing it firsthand on a Travel Advisor familiarization tour in December of 2018. And I’ve been longing to return ever since.
✈️ The Journey Begins
My journey began on December 3rd, 2018 with a domestic hop to Baltimore before heading to New York, then boarding a non-stop flight from JFK to Tel Aviv.
Our guide, Mike, welcomed us with a warm smile and deep knowledge that would shape our experience for the days ahead. That night, we checked into the Olive Tree Hotel — a beautiful blend of comfort and culture, just minutes from the Old City of Jerusalem.
As Sabbath approached, I quickly discovered how deeply faith and tradition influence everyday life — even things as simple as how elevators operate!
Walking Through Scripture
From Bethlehem to the Galilee, our days were filled with unforgettable moments that brought biblical stories to life. I stood in the cave believed to be the birthplace of Christ. I walked through Shepherds’ Field where angels proclaimed His birth. On the Mount of Olives, I gazed across the city Jesus wept over. In the Garden of Gethsemane, I prayed among ancient olive trees, touched by the solemn beauty of that sacred place.
We retraced the steps of Jesus along the Via Dolorosa, touched the ancient stones of the Western Wall, and reflected in silence at the Garden Tomb — a place of both sorrow and astonishing hope.
From Ruins to Revelation
We journeyed through Qumran, home of the Dead Sea Scrolls, and explored the ruins of Jericho — the oldest city in the world. In Nazareth, I walked where Jesus spent his childhood, and in Capernaum, I stood in the synagogue where He taught.
One of the most moving moments came on the Sea of Galilee — aboard a wooden boat gliding across those quiet waters. Surrounded by gentle waves and distant hills, it felt as if time stood still. It’s one of my most precious stories I love to tell – ask me about it anytime!
A Journey for the Soul
We ended our pilgrimage at the Jordan River’s Yardenit Baptismal Site — a powerful spot to reflect and renew one’s faith. Although already baptized, I wanted to do it again, here. It was December, so it was cold! But it was worth doing!
As our trip came to a close, I felt transformed. Not just educated or inspired — but changed.
Thinking of Going? Let Me Help You Get There.
From guided land tours like the 10-Day Holy Land Classic, to unforgettable Mediterranean cruises that include Jerusalem as a port of call, there are several ways to explore this extraordinary region.
I’ve personally experienced the magic and meaning of the Holy Land — and I’d love to help you do the same. If you’re curious about what it’s like, I’ve got sample itineraries, helpful FAQs, and even a 2-minute overview video of a Lands of the Bible Cruise journey I can send your way.
Let’s talk about how you can walk where history and faith come alive.
Sample Itineraries:
Destination Israel: Holy Land Classic Tour (10 Days)
Cruise the Med: Rome to Jerusalem 11 days in May 2023
2 minute overview of a sample “Lands of the Bible Cruise” Journey
FAQs Pages:
35 Interesting Israel Items!
5 Reasons Jerusalem, Israel is an Important Destination for Faith Travelers
Israel 101: The 5 Hottest Tourism Areas
Israel 101: More Israel FAQs