Today was the official start of classes and to be honest I was pumped. I had only one class today which was sweet, I had Dr. Wright for Physical settings of the Bible. This morning was introductory of course, but we found that the majority of the class will be out in the field. Not only that, but the class covers alot of very cool places I had no clue we'd be visiting.
The other thing that I realized is that this semester is gonna be more challenging Academically than I thought. Tomorrow I start studying Hebrew...please pray for me...I do like challenges though, so i'm sure it won't be too bad.
As I had much free time today after class I decided to walk through Jerusalem, and I went to see the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which is also the location of the Crucifiction. Check out this link for interesting pictures and fatcs about the church: http://www.sacred-destinations.com/israel/jerusalem-church-of-holy-sepulchre.htm.
I have learned after a few Field studies now that it is difficult to really appreciate these historical sites during class. When I visited some of the historic sites in Jerusalem during class it became difficult to grasp, or it hadn't sunk in right away that Jesus and his disciples had actually been here and walked where I was walking. As I walked the Old city today on my own I really focused on trying appreciate these spots, but also allow them to impact me. As I entered the church I walked around and enjoyed all the amazing artwork like the mosaics made of millions of tiny stones to form the most beautiful pictures. I visited Golgotha again today, but being there for my own devotion made this visit a different experience. You could truly feel that this was a Holy place, and as I stood there in the shadow of the cross I could feel God's presence in a way that I have never felt before and it became real to me that Christ had been there.
I've had to buy some of my books and supplies and I've realized that Shekels don't take you very far...my Hebrew book alone was 180 Shekels. I've met alot of really cool people and I can tell already that some good friendships will be made. I met a guy that shares my love of soccer and so we plan sometime this semester to watch a game. I went last night with a group of about 8 people to a party at a local club/restaurant which was alot of fun (and had free appetizers...which every student can appreciate). As the semester gets going it's gonna move real fast so I need to appreciate every moment.