We met up in the morning with retired Colonel Kobi Merom (the same man who just gave US administrations officials a tour of the Lebanese border) for an overview of Lebanon and the Lebanon-Israeli border. This was a somewhat tense overview because 3 days before we came to the border an IDF soldier was sniped dead. In fact the exact spot was around 100 yards from where we stood on an overlook. You could see the charred earth and rubble from the Israeli artillery response.
To make things more interesting, the call to pray began while we were sitting there.
Following our overview of Lebanon we traveled to the Hatzbani river for a rafting adventure. It was quite fun.
After rafting and lunch we embarked on the 3 hour ascent to the Holy City of Jerusalem.
We stopped at a scenic overlook for a blessing but hurried along to catch Shabbat at the Western Wall. Use of electrical devices was strictly prohibited but what a sight! Thousands of Jews chanting, yelling, singing, and even dancing at the Western Wall. I was able to work my way up there and say a few prayers. As Gentiles we are prohibited from placing notes in the wall on Shabbat.
We then enjoyed a wonderful Shabbat Dinner in the Jewish quarter of the Old City.
Note: Meals are served in waves in Israel. It is quite overwhelming. There is literally too much food to try! Our meals last 2 hours if we are lucky; most of the time it's more!
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