Taking a look around

For Shabbat, I went to worship at Kehilat HaCarmel with Laura, a woman I know from Minnesota who happens to be here in Haifa. She left today to volunteer with the IDF (Israeli army). The fellowship was different than any of the Messianic communities I've been to - more like a charismatic church with Hebrew songs and Arabic, Russian, and English translation. They have some neat ministries, including a shelter for refugees from Sudan and Eritrea.

I walked around campus a bit and was stunned by some of the gorgeous views...I kept saying "wow! wow! wow!" Unfortunately my photos only give a tiny glimpse - trust me that it's way better in person.

But the best part of the day was setting out on my own private hike through Mt. Carmel National Park - it is literally just steps away from our campus. What amazing views! Green, mountainous landscape with barely anyone around for miles. Had some excellent time talking with God and just enjoying His beautiful creation. It is so cool seeing the terrain and vegetation of the land of my spiritual heritage. Mt. Carmel is where Elijah challenged Baal's prophets to see whose deity could light the altar with fire - and of course, only the God of Israel showed Himself to be so powerful. Rak ata raui (You alone are worthy)!