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Our Visit to the Holy Land
Dear Pilgrim,
It is with great joy that we welcome you to this land, a land that is unlike any other. The journey that you are about to take in this region has been called by various names such as Canaan, Palestine, and now Israel. In biblical times it was considered to be THE CENTER of the world and for the three monotheistic religions - Judaism, Christianity, and Islam - it has become the focal point of their respective religious beliefs.
In the Judeo-Christian tradition, a special relationship became intertwined despite major theological differences. Salvation history as expressed in the Old Testament called for a Messiah who would lead the Jewish nation as their king. The Jewish people are still waiting for the Messiah, For Christians, the New Testament is the fulfillment of the Old Testament and The Messiah that is spoken of in The Old Testament has indeed become a reality in the person of Jesus Christ. Islam, on the other hand, was founded in 6 AD by the Prophet Mohammed and like the other monotheistic religions plays an important role in this land.
For Jews this land was predestined for them a long time ago by God, a God who made them the "chosen people" through Abraham and his descendants. For Christians, this land is the "Cradle of Christianity" for it was here that Jesus Christ was born. He is the long awaited Messiah and Lord and through his death and resurrection redeemed humanity. For Muslims, Jerusalem is the third holiest city after Mecca and Medina for it was here that the Prophet Mohammed takes the "night journey" to heaven from the holy rock surrounded by the Golden Dome of Jerusalem.
In many ways whether one is Jewish, Christian or Muslim your Pilgrimage to this Holy Land should be looked upon as a place of intersection between everyday life and the life of God. It is a geographical location that is worthy of reflection because it has been the scene of a manifestation of divine power. I hope and pray that this book will guide each of you on your spiritual journey here in the Holy Land and as you walk, pray, and seek God, that you will indeed be strengthened and develop a deeper appreciation of your roots and heritage.
As Christians celebrate the 2000 anniversary of the birth of the Jesus Christ, may this message of peace and goodwill permeate the hearts and souls of all people throughout this land.
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