It’s only been three weeks since we completed the Jesus Trail 2022 and we’re still thinking about it…
Here are a few words written by one of our walkers, Josie Swartzentruber, who walked the trail alongside her sister Jacqueline:
The sun rising on the Sea of Galilee.
Peaceful moments. Challenging routes. Tired feet. New friendships. Sister-time. Wonderful memories.
I loved hiking the Jesus Trail! My sister and I had looked forward to this trip for a couple years. And now it had become reality! We walked along dusty roads, rocky paths, village streets, muddy fields, crossed streams, ascended and descended Horns of Hattin and Mount Arbel, and hiked along the Sea of Galilee. I tried to imagine what it must have been like when Jesus walked here with his disciples, and, as I reflected, I realized that, in a sense, Jesus was walking with us, too. Jesus was with us as we hopped from rock to rock across streams, encouraged each other on hilly climbs and rocky descents, and formed new friendships. I enjoyed experiencing the local culture through our Jewish tour guide and through the kind hospitality of a local homeowner who allowed us to use their private restroom and then served us tea!
If I had to choose a favorite part, it would be the steep descent of Mt. Arbel, or perhaps finding our way along the Sea of Galilee (wait, is this the right way to go, or is it that path over there?) Or, maybe my favorite part was relaxing at the edge of the Sea of Galilee at night, with the lights of Tiberius shining across the lake, and then watching the sun rise over the Sea the next morning. So many favorite moments, and rejoicing that I could share these amazing experiences with my sister. I feel privileged to have been part of Jesus Trail 2022.
Josie and Jacqueline stand at the top of Mount Arbel.
If you’d like to register interest in the next edition of the Jesus Trail, email events@nazarethtrust.org.
