Shepherd's Field & Bethlehem

Shepherd's Field (Bethlehem is in the background)
Yes, there are still sheep and shepherd boys wandering there!

While living in Jerusalem (I studied abroad for 4 months in Israel) I had many life changing experiences as I studied the life of our Savior Jesus Christ & visited the places that he had been during his mortal life. Today I was thinking of Christ's birth & I pulled out some of my pictures & journals. It brought back great memories so I'd thought I'd share a few.

Monday April 10, 2000
"Last night we went to the Shepherd's Field just south of Bethlehem. It was in that area that the angels came and told the shepherds of Christ's birth (Luke 2:8-20). We sat at dusk and watched the lights of Bethlehem come on while we had a small program reading the scriptures of the Savior's birth and singing songs. It was a very sweet experience to think nearly 2000 years ago this time of year that the Savior was born here! It was a windy & chilly evening and I couldn't help but wonder if it was the same while Mary & Joseph searched for shelter. So often I imagine the weather always being hot in Israel, but I've learned the hard way--that's not true in Jerusalem during the winter months! I'll never view Christ's birth the same way again."



Below: The Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem (A Catholic Church built over the birth place of Jesus Christ. For more information about The Church of the Nativity I found this website with great pictures & fairly accurate historical information.




I'm grateful for this time of year that I can reflect more on the Savior and His Life. I'm so thankful for His great sacrifice & example.

Nativity bought in Bethlehem made out of olive wood.

PS A big shout out to those who I was in Jerusalem with! Love you guys!