ISRAEL TOUR WITH THE MERRILLS

Day 1 – Monday, Dec. 9th

We meet together at our gateway airport (EWR) to board the nonstop flight for Israel. Dinner and breakfast will be served on board before arrival in Tel Aviv.

Day 2 – Tuesday, Dec. 10th

Arrive in the Holy Land! After passport control, we are met by a greeter from the travel company and are welcomed to Israel. We claim our luggage and meet our wonderful guide. Time-permitting, we will visit the stunning ruins of Caesarea on the Mediterranean. In this location, Paul testified before King Agrippa, and the gospel opened to the Gentiles when Peter visited Cornelius’ house. Next, we’ll stand atop twenty-six layers of destroyed and rebuilt cities at Megiddo, overlooking the Valley of Armageddon—the future site of the world’s last great battle. Onward to our beautiful hotel in Galilee! It’s time for dinner and a good night’s rest.

Day 3 – Wednesday, Dec. 11th

We awake refreshed and enjoy a full Israeli- buffet breakfast. This morning, we start at the Museum of the Ancient Boat and then experience a special time of worship together while sailing across the Sea of Galilee. This is such a memorable experience! Now on to picturesque Capernaum—the town Jesus used as a base of operations for His ministry. Many miracles happened here! Next, we drive to Magdala to see the impressive remains of a first-century synagogue as well as the salt purification pits in this ancient fisherman’s village. We drive a short distance to the Mt. of Beatitudes and overlook the area of the feeding of the 5, 000. Time-permitting, we will stop at Bethsaida (El Araj), the hometown of Peter, Andrew, and Philip on our way home to end a full day in Galilee.

Day 4 – Thursday, Dec. 12th

Moving day! Our bags are packed and outside our doors before breakfast. This morning you have the unique opportunity to be baptized in the Jordan River. We will continue our journey down through the fertile Jordan Valley and ascend the mountain for an unforgettable entrance into Jerusalem. We’ll see the incredible Old City of David (including Nehemiah’s Wall, Hezekiah’s Tunnel, the Pool of Siloam), and then drive by the Valley of Hinnom on the way to our hotel where we will stay for the next four nights.

Day 5 – Friday, Dec. 13th

We start our morning atop the Mt. of Olives with another breathtaking view of the Old City. Jesus ascended from this place and His feet will touch Earth here when He returns. Next, we walk down the Hosanna Road to Gethsemane where Jesus often gathered with His disciples and was eventually arrested. We have a special time of personal prayer in this meaningful place. We travel to Herod’s Hidden Gate in the city wall where Jesus’ death sentence was proclaimed at the judgement seat. We walk the likely path Jesus traveled outside the city wall down to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site many believe is the location of Jesus’ crucifixion and burial. We’ll see the quarry for some of the Temple foundation stones as well as some first-century tombs. After lunch, we will visit the Garden Tomb, a possible site for Jesus’ burial and resurrection. This is always a meaningful time to observe the Lord’s Supper and reflect on His great love for us in this beautiful setting.

Day 6 – Saturday, Dec. 14th

Today, we travel to the lowest place on earth— the Dead Sea. We will learn about the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran, see the area of Ein Gedi (where David hid from King Saul), ascend Masada (Herod’s epic desert fortress), and float in the Dead Sea. This is the only water in the world with this kind of buoyancy. This entire day is a unique experience!

Day 7 – Sunday, Dec. 15th

This is a glorious day off in Jerusalem! At breakfast, we will have an optional, informal worship service before heading out into the city. Everyone may relax, shop, or explore a special attraction of interest. A few favorites are the Yad Vashem (Holocaust Museum), Western Wall Tunnels, Yehuda Market, Israel Museum, Temple Institute, and many more! Public transportation is one block away from our hotel. For those interested, a tour with our guide may be available for a smaller group at an additional cost.

Day 8 – Monday, Dec. 16th

This morning we explore the Temple Mount area, reading a psalm of ascent while walking up the Southern Steps. Jesus certainly walked and taught His disciples here! This special place offers an incredible view over the Old City of David. We will take time to pray for the peace of Jerusalem at the Western Wall. After lunch, we travel to Bethlehem to visit the Shepherd’s Fields. This incredible little town is the place where Ruth gleaned in Boaz’ fields, David grew up caring for sheep, and the Savior of the world was born! We will celebrate Emmanuel here and enjoy singing Christmas carols together. Time-permitting, we will stop at an olive wood shop before heading to a special farewell dinner and the airport.

Day 9 – Tuesday, Dec. 17th

We say “goodbye” to our guide and driver and to this wonderful land. We board our nonstop flight with lots of great memories, many new friends, and a fresh perspective of the Bible. We fly through the night and arrive back in Newark, NJ. Shalom!