No one: Hey, it would be fun to revisit your trip to Egypt, Jordan, and Israel in 2019. For the next few days, you should post letters describing each day.
Me: Say less
Dear Friends,
Greetings from the bustling city of Cairo! I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits.
This morning was awe-inspiring as we visited the Grand Egyptian Museum, a treasure trove of priceless remnants. For centuries, it was home to the bulk of the tomb of Tutankhamen; it still houses artifacts from only a fraction of the total holdings. The museum was teeming with exhibits, and we couldn’t help but be drawn to the world-famous relics that told stories of a time long ago.
Our day continued with a serene felucca ride on the majestic Nile. As the boat gently glided through the waters, I couldn’t help but reflect on the beauty of God’s creation, as mentioned in Psalms 104:24-30. It was a moment of peace and tranquility, surrounded by past and present twin realities.
In the afternoon, we toured Old Cairo, exploring the rich history and spiritual heritage of this ancient city. One of the highlights was the Coptic church of Abu Serga (St Sergius), whose crypt dates back to the 6th century. According to tradition, this is where Joseph, Mary, and the Christ child rested during their flight into Egypt. It brought to mind the biblical passages of Matthew 2:13-15, highlighting the profound connections between biblical events and the places we were visiting.
Our journey also took us to the Coptic church of “Al-Mu’allaqah,” dating from the early fourth century. As we immersed ourselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Egypt, I couldn’t help but think of the diverse contrasts that define this land, much like the dichotomies mentioned in the Bible – the parables of soil and sand, richness and poverty.
Our guide Sam informed that of the over 18,000 registered tour guides in Egypt, only 800 of them are “Egyptologists” who share insights into the spiritual ties between biblical narratives and this ancient land.
However, amidst the wonders, we also encountered the chaotic reality of a Prince of Kuwait speeding by in a motorcade, disrupting the flow of traffic for an hour. It served as a reminder of the stark contrasts that exist in this intriguing country.
As I write this letter, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to witness and experience the marvels of Egypt. Tomorrow, we embark on a short flight to Amman, and I look forward to sharing more stories with you soon.
May God’s blessings be with you always.
With love,
~PW 🌮🛶
Phillip W. Martin 
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