Use your imagination and edit out all the buildings and infrastructure, cover the mount with olive trees, and this is the view greeting pilgrims each morning, pilgrims like Jesus, who visited ancient Jerusalem.

It’s the view that greets us each morning — one of the things that makes the early morning start worthwhile. 

As we make our way from the hotel through narrow streets and past closed shops, we catch the scent of jasmine and hear the roosters announcing the morning with their signature call — understandable in any language. Now, reading about the cock crowing on the morning of Peter’s arrest has a vivid reference.

Today we began the work of further excavating the site. Walls were removed, boulders hauled up and out, and buckets of dirt disposed of. Layer by layer the past is uncovered. People broke up the ground, looking for “finds.” Surveyors measured. Staff directed teams. And all things of note (more on this later) were catalogued.

After a beautiful start to the day, Dig Mt. Zion 2017 is underway!

4 thoughts on “The Mt. of Olives in the Morning”

  3. Von – Your visit is bringing back memories of my visit. Jesus, his pre-history, and first Christians would be proud of you – and your Dig. You may not find any body parts but he and his are with you in spirit. Jack Fenlon

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  4. Von – thank you for sharing this journey with us. The photos bring the story (both yours and those that have come before) to life. Our family is enjoying following you on the dig!

    Scott Anderson 

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    D. Scott Anderson | Partner
    Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, LLP
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