Israel, beloved Israel has been much in the news. I have been reminiscing about the times that I had the joy of taking groups to Israel. Let me share one of those experiences with you.

“As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about His people from henceforth even for ever” (Psalm 125:2).

The next day we would leave the Galilee area of Israel and travel on to Jerusalem. After dinner at the Kibbutz, we gathered in a private room for evening devotions and sharing. I told the group, “Tomorrow will be a full day of sightseeing and travel. Our guide told me the weather looks cooperative, so it should be good weather-wise. I might not get a chance to remind you tomorrow, so let me tell you now. Be sure to notice that we will be going up to Jerusalem.

As we enter the city, notice the surrounding mountains. This will be an illustration that you will remember the rest of your lives. As the mountains are round about this very precious city, so the Lord personally embraces, or surrounds, His people.” As the tour bus approached the city, the mountains seemed to majestically say, “Welcome to Jerusalem! See us? This is how our great Creator God surrounds you.”

Here’s a thought to send you on your way for now: If you know Christ as your Savior, you have the Lord’s promise that He surrounds you with His faithfulness and love.