
Years ago in Israel, I climbed a mountain above the beautiful Sea of Galilee – the mustard seeds of the parables were in bloom. The lilies of the field flooded the sea of green and gold with their brilliant crimson blooms. I sat on a rock by an ancient Roman road. I fixed my gaze on the ruts in the road made by chariot wheels two thousand years ago, imagining a centurion whipping his magnificent steeds down the rugged mountain to the shore.
I drifted back in time, seeing a multitude seated in that natural amphitheatre. I imagined myself sitting among them, listening to the words of the greatest Teacher who ever lived. I read the Sermon on the Mount – it came alive! As I prepared this study, contemplating this world for which Jesus Christ died almost two thousand years ago, I asked myself, “Had His plans for the world come to pass?” I considered the Lord’s Prayer – the disciple’s prayer actually.