One of the most fascinating sites on our Israel Tour was Megiddo. Megiddo lies at the head of a mountain pass at the western end of the valley of Jezreel. It has a history that spans more than 3500 years. It was destroyed and rebuilt more than 20 times on the same spot. In the New Testament Book of Revelation (16:14-16) it is marked as the site of the last great battle of the world: Armageddon (derived from the Hebrew for Har Megiddo).

King Solomon fortified the city in the 10th century BC (1 Kings 9:15). The Bible says that he fortified the walls of the city. The ancient gate stills stands today. We learned a lot about the gates of the city. In ancient times it was the gates of the city where justice was served, where conferences were held, where business was conducted, where public commendations were given and where wisdom was shared. In Proverbs 1:20 - 21 we read, "Wisdom calls aloud in the street, she raises her voice in the public squares; at the head of the noisy streets she cries out, in the gateways of the city she makes her speech." Standing on a 3,500 year old site I wondered how much wisdom would have been shared at this site over the years. And while we're on the subject of gates, let's not forget that Jesus Christ said, "I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved" (John 10:9). What a great picture. Not only are we saved through Christ, I believe wisdom comes through Him. Jesus is the way to wisdom. As we obey His words and follow Him are lives are filled with His wisdom. He's the Gate to wisdom. "In Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" (Colossians 2:3).

This is a view of the Jezreel valley from the top of the hill of Megiddo. You can see how lush and fertile the valley floor has become. This valley is one of the highest pieces of food-producing real estate in all of the world. This is amazing considering that at the turn of the 20th century, it was a malaria infested wasteland. When you're standing atop Megiddo you can readily see what a miracle of restoration has taken place. This is all in accord with biblical prophecy found in Ezekiel 36:33-36, "This is what the Sovereign Lord says: On the day I cleanse you from all your sins, I will resettle your towns, and the ruins will be rebuilt. The desolate land will be cultivated instead of lying desolate in the sight of all who pass through it. They will say, this land that was laid waste has become like the garden of Eden; the cities that were lying in ruins, desolate and destroyed are now fortified and inhabited. Then the nations around you that remain will know that I the Lord have rebuilt what was destroyed and have replanted what was desolate. I the Lord have spoken, and I will do it."

I learned two important things visiting Megiddo. One, God's word can be trusted. God said this area will be rebuilt and restored and you can see it from Megiddo. All of God's words are true and trustworthy. Two, wisdom comes from living for Jesus Christ. He's the gateway to wisdom. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. I hope you're living in awe of the One who gave His all for you.

May more of His wisdom be ours!

Pastor Tim