Bethany-Beyond-The-Jordan

The baptism of Jesus is a major event in the gospels.

These things were done in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptizing.  (John 1:28)

When we were in Jordan, we scheduled a day at the Dead Sea near the site where Jesus was baptized, which was high on our list of places we wanted to see.

The Dead Sea really is as salty as you’ve heard. You can see the accumulation on rocks at the shore. We spent the night at the Holiday Inn and went for a swim in the morning. Well, more like a float. Standing up is tough to do once you’re on your back. You really can’t force your feet below the surface. I’ve never experienced anything like it.

I don’t know how the goat herders keep their flock from being run over by the traffic.

The baptism site is officially called Al-Maghtas, but we never heard that when we were there. We paid the 12 Jordanian dinar ($17 US) and boarded the tour bus to the site.

The Jordan River wasn’t as full as I imagined. Hard to believe crossing it was such a big deal for the Israelis.

Arriving at the site was humbling. I had heard the story my whole life but actually walking in the footsteps of Jesus was eye opening.

In 2000, Pope John Paul II was the first pope to visit.

A lot denominations are building churches in the area.

If you ever get to Israel or Jordan, do yourself a favor and make sure Bethany beyond the Jordan is on your itinerary.

~ Freddy