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by Gia and David, senior pastors, Huntsville Vineyard Church
"Recently my husband and I had the opportunity to travel to Israel with Kim and the Ruth Israel Initiative. For years we had considered going, but we thought a trip to the "Holy Land" wasn't that important in our lives. We were wrong. Our experience in Israel opened up the scripture to us and deepened our love for Jesus. Kim did an excellent job of balancing spiritual formation, historical sightseeing, teaching, rest, fun, and great food. We had time with our group and time alone for ministry, prayer and reflection. We hope to go back and take others with us on another Journey of Understanding in Israel." |
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by O'Shelia and Gregory, assistant pastors Bessemer, AL
"This was our second visit to Israel and although we enjoyed our first trip, the experience with Kim and Ruth Israel Initiative was completely different with much more of a connection with the local people and culture. The people and their stories about their journey to Israel were inspiring and a testimony to God's goodness and love for Israel. Every day was not only full of biblical sites, but there was also a time of prayer and listening where we experienced amazing encounters with the Lord that we will cherish forever. Our favorite place was the Sea of Galilee and the town of Tiberias. We would love to travel with Kim to Israel again when the Lord permits. |
Streams in the Desert
by Marie
"Everything was so brown and hot and dead in the Dead Sea area and then we came to the Springs of Ein Gedi. At least 3 waterfalls surrounded by lush green vegetation in the midst of all the dryness. It reminded me of what God can do in my life: Take the dry places and pour life into them once more." |
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The Bible Comes Alive
by Nicole
"The Bible really does come alive when you visit Israel. You see there are literal streams in the desert and you stand in places whose names you have only previously read about as an overwhelming awe floods over you in the realization of the scriptures authenticity. There were several highlights from the Israel Basics trip which I think of fondly. However, an underlying biblical tone which highly resonates with my journey is the one of perseverance and being an overcomer. The associating experience in land was climbing/hiking up Masada. The whole experience reinforces all things are possible with God." |
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Trip of a Lifetimeby Gina
"This was truly a trip of a lifetime! I knew it would be great but it was even better. Jesus and the scripture has come more alive for me. From the Old City to the Dead Sea to the Sea of Galilee you could feel the strong presence of the Lord. We were blessed with divine appointments. We met a Holocaust survivor and were amazed at her story. I felt the Lord used us for intercession and declarations over the land. Lord willing, I'll visit again!" |
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by Kim
"I've completed 9 trips to Israel as of November 2017, ranging in length from 10 days to 1 year each. Every time I go, the Lord meets me in new and deep encounters that become a new trajectory for the next chapter of my life. I always come home with a renewed zeal for the Word of God and worshiping in spirit and truth. A visit to my Father's house in Israel feels like a visit to Heaven, or as close as we are able to come while still in this life. I think every Christian should prioritize a Pilgrimage to Zion for their lifetime. Finding your place in God's unfolding plan changes you...in the best ways possible!" |
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