Sunrise over the Sea of Galilee from the Mt. or Beatitudes

Sunrise over the Sea of Galilee from the Mt. or Beatitudes

Up early this morning, and after prayer, decided to go for a walk prior to breakfast.  The wind is really strong along the Sea of Galilee this morning, and it is hazy.  Nevertheless, a perfect opportunity to walk with Jesus along this shore where so much of his ministry took place.

The roosters were crowing, the birds were singing and other than the wind, it is a very peaceful start to the day.  In praying a rosary, one quickly realizes that the mysteries called to mind took place at sites not far away.  The Holy Land is quite small geographically.

The sea of Galilee is 600 feet below sea level, and sits in a bit of a bowl.  The surrounding slopes provide natural run off, which is important, because this source of water provides 40% of the water needs for Israel.

Beatitudes 004It is quite easy to picture Jesus seated on this gently sloping landscape, with the hordes of people who flocked to them as he taught them:

When he saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him.  He began to teach them, saying:

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.  Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.  Blessed are they who hunger and thirst fo rrighteousness, for they will be satisfied.  Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.  Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.  Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.  Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me.  Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.  (Matthew 5:1-12)

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