Christmas in the Holy Land

Christmas is one of the most important holidays in the Christian calendar. The second major holiday is Easter celebrated in the spring. Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem. Visiting the Holy Land during the Christmas can be an incredibly meaningful experience. There is a lot of deep meaning in Christmas in the Holy Land. So here is a few things to do for Christmas in the Holy Land:

 

#1: Visit Bethlehem, the site of Jesus’ birth

Bethlehem was the birthplace of Jesus Christ. At the time of Jesus’ birth, the Roman powers were conducting a census of the land. Residents of the land had to register where they were originally from. Joseph, engaged to Mary, was born and raised in Bethlehem. So he and the Virgin Mary made their way to the city from Nazareth. When they arrived all the ancient “Bed & Breakfasts” were booked, so they had to stay in the only space available—a stable. When they arrived, Mary gave birth to the baby Jesus.

The Church of the Nativity, commemorating the place where Jesus was born. (מרכז להבה נצרת. מתוך אתר פיקיוויקי).

Today a church is built on the traditional spot where Jesus Christ was born. How special can it be to visit the site of the holiday on Christmas day?!

 

#2: Hike the Jesus Trail

The Jesus Trail is a hiking trail in the Galilee stopping in places relevant in Christianity. It begins in Nazareth, and ends in Capernaum, totaling sixty kilometers (37.3 miles). The trail focuses on where Jesus preached, performed his miracles, and taught in the north. What I think is so special about hiking is that it allows you to have the time to meditate.

 

During this holiday season, provide yourself with the time to visit the sites of Jesus in north Israel and to meditate on the meaning of Christmas and the message of Jesus!

 

#3: See one of the decorated Christmas Trees in Israel

The tradition of the Christmas trees has been going on for hundreds of years. Some say that the evergreen tree in nature at night with the stars of the shining through can be very spiritual. Therefore, the Christmas tree lights symbolize the stars in the sky. There are decorated Christmas trees throughout Israel, such as in Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Haifa, and Tel Aviv.

A Christmas Tree in the Israeli city of Nazareth. (דר אבישי טייכר. מתוך אתר פיקיוויקי).

Trees have a special part in modern Israeli history. Israel is the only country in the world to have more trees at the end of the 20th century than at the beginning of the century. Tree planting is a common practice while visiting Israel as well. So, go ahead and see one of these decorated Christmas Trees and then go plant a tree!

 

#4: Rededicate your baptism in the Jordan River (where Jesus was baptized)

Jesus was baptized in the Jordan River by John the Baptist after fasting and meditating in the desert. It is during the baptism he hears the Father and sees the Holy Spirit as a dove. He then begins his way preaching the Word. Many Christians will rededicate their baptism in the Jordan River while they are in the Holy Land. And what a wonderful time to rededicate a baptism than during the Christmas season.

 

#5: Rededicate your wedding vows in Kafr Kanna, where Jesus performed the miracle of turning water into wine at a wedding.

Jesus’ first miracle is at a wedding in the town of Kanna. During the reception the guests run out of wine, and the new couple does not have the means to bring more wine. Jesus will turn water into wine in order for the guests to continue celebrating the union between the young bride and groom.

 

Today, when visiting the church remembering event married couples will rededicated their vows to one another. There is no better time to do that than when remembering the beginning of Jesus’ story in the Holy Land.

The Church of the Holy Sepulcher, the site where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. (Photo by Samantha Israel Tours).

Christmas in the Holy Land can be incredibly meaningful. But if you want to do something to make the holiday even more significant these are five meaningful activities that are easily accessible and yet unique. I wish all believers a meaningful and Merry Christmas!

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Samantha Ben Avraham: Samantha is a private tour guide in Israel. Her passion is to bring Israel to you on a personal and interesting level. From guiding University groups to Birthright trips to private family tours, Samantha brings Israel to you!
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