As I reflect on my time in Jerusalem, I realize with profound gratitude a work of grace was done in my life. This work started with deep repentance for the shortcomings in my walk as a Christian and with a renewed dedication to the One who died for me as I spent moments alone in the Garden Tomb. The seriousness of the Christian life was also deeply impressed in my mind.
Some dispute the argument for the Garden Tomb as the actual place of the Lord's death and burial, but after listening to Pastor Derek Walker's interview with Christine Darg, I am convinced it is certainly more plausible than the site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (see video below). In the midst of the hustle and bustle of Jerusalem, that Garden is a haven of rest. The sheer simplicity and beauty of this place stirred my soul.
On Good Friday, I had gone to contemplate the crucifixion at 9am at the foot of what they think is Golgotha and to my surprise, there was a service scheduled for 9.30. Rico Tice from All Souls Church, Langham Place, London, spoke from 1 Thessalonians 1 v 1-10, emphasizing the last clause of verse 10 (Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath). His message just melted me. How often do we really meditate on the cross? Let us never forget what took place there!
As I continue to digest the diverse impressions made during my trip, much joy remains in my heart every day. In fact, I believe I have returned to 'my first love', for which I am very thankful. The Church in Ephesus in Revelation chapter 2 had forsaken their 'first love', which was a very serious flaw in their testimony. Furthermore, they were warned if they did not repent, their lampstand was going to be removed. These are weighty words! Sometimes the sheer pressures of life and meeting demands of needy people can squeeze the life out of your soul, but thank the Lord for times of refreshing which enable us to repent and come back to our 'first love'. May we all come back to our 'first love' and give the Lord the first place in our lives.
Some dispute the argument for the Garden Tomb as the actual place of the Lord's death and burial, but after listening to Pastor Derek Walker's interview with Christine Darg, I am convinced it is certainly more plausible than the site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (see video below). In the midst of the hustle and bustle of Jerusalem, that Garden is a haven of rest. The sheer simplicity and beauty of this place stirred my soul.
On Good Friday, I had gone to contemplate the crucifixion at 9am at the foot of what they think is Golgotha and to my surprise, there was a service scheduled for 9.30. Rico Tice from All Souls Church, Langham Place, London, spoke from 1 Thessalonians 1 v 1-10, emphasizing the last clause of verse 10 (Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath). His message just melted me. How often do we really meditate on the cross? Let us never forget what took place there!
As I continue to digest the diverse impressions made during my trip, much joy remains in my heart every day. In fact, I believe I have returned to 'my first love', for which I am very thankful. The Church in Ephesus in Revelation chapter 2 had forsaken their 'first love', which was a very serious flaw in their testimony. Furthermore, they were warned if they did not repent, their lampstand was going to be removed. These are weighty words! Sometimes the sheer pressures of life and meeting demands of needy people can squeeze the life out of your soul, but thank the Lord for times of refreshing which enable us to repent and come back to our 'first love'. May we all come back to our 'first love' and give the Lord the first place in our lives.
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