Adventures in Israel #2 in the series.

Walking where Jesus walked was a sobering experience for me. I didn't realize how long the walk was or how narrow the streets were. The route is in the old city of Jerusalem. The Via Dolorosa is about a half mile long. The Via Dolorosa, or Way of Suffering, weaves its way through Jerusalem's Old City and is believed to be the path Jesus walked, carrying his cross, on the way to his crucifixion.

It's hard to image what these walls have seen. If only they could speak. That was my thought as I weaved my way through the masses of people that still come here from all over the world today. I am sure as I got lost in my thoughts there were many photos that I could or should have taken, but instead my heart was taken with the reality of what Jesus did for me, the walk He walked for me. I began to ask myself questions about my own walk, and what I am leaving behind for others to follow? So many times tears would stream down my face, not because I was sad, but because I was grateful. My life is forever changed because of Jesus.

Below are some pictures of our actual walk. Notice the road made of stones that still exist and the various stages of the cross that lined the path. The Stations of Cross (or Way of the Cross) is a series of 14 artistic images that depict the Passion of the Christ and His crucifixion. Many Catholics and others use these images to pray and reflect on the last hours (or Passion) of Jesus Christ. The streets are very slick and it's a tough walk on stone everyday, so if you plan to go wear really good shoes with bottoms that have some grip. I was fine but my legs were screaming by the last few days. I dropped my phone once and needless to say, when I got home I had to get a new phone. So, take an old phone or a really good case! The streets are not as forgiving as the one who walked them.

ACTION STEP: ​Take some time and read and study about this event. If you truly desire to go to Israel I would suggest learning as much as you can before you go, so that you will be able to comprehend what you will see and experience.
Jesus, thank You for walking the way of sorrow and making a way for us to be reconciled to God.
Christ’s sacrifice was what God desired and what our sin required. I am so grateful Christ was willing to pay the cost. The Bible is not just a story, it is not just history, it is life-changing.