The Holy Land Experience

I almost don’t know where to start.

This past week, I went on vacation with some of my family members to Orlando, FL. The agenda was to go to the Holy Land Experience, a replica of the real Holy Land in Israel, by the Trinity Broadcast Network (TBN) and then to some of the Disney theme parks (and of course, to get some shopping done!)

I’m already a born again Christian, but if I weren’t, I surely would have been converted to one by the time I left the Holy Land Experience. As my Mother said, “It’s like being in heaven. Everyone is walking around all day talking about Jesus!” It almost seemed as if we were in a secluded Christians only community, because indeed, everyone who was there – people of all walks of life, ages, and colors were indeed talking about Jesus, and Jesus alone.

While we were there, we went to see their various plays and reenactments of Biblical stories. We also saw a reenactment of the Last Supper and was able to take Holy Communion with “Jesus” (a cast member who looked just like what I imagine the real Jesus to look like.)

We then went to a place called the Scriptorium and it showed the history of the Bible and how we got these little books that we take to church and read (or at least I hope we do.)  As a writer and author, I was moved to tears to see how much diligence, effort, blood sweat and tears went into putting the Word of God into book form. Many people lost their lives throughout history just trying to pen down the Scriptures and pass it on to future generations. It was so inspiring and moving!

At the end of many of the plays, everyone was invited to say the Sinner’s Pray and accept Christ as their personal Lord and Savior! Really – on vacation! 

The ultimate play was the “Behold the Lamb” presentation where we first heard how the “trial of Christ” had broken so many Jewish laws that it was totally unlawful! And then we saw Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane praying earnestly, “Father, if it’s Your will, take this cup from Me. But not My will Lord, but Yours be done.” Luke 22:42

I had to whip out my pda and try my hand at using the camcorder to share some of the actual scenes with you. (The last video clip shows Jesus Christ, crowned and yes, indeed, His train filled the temple!! Isaiah 6:1)

At the end of this spectacular play, all attendees were invited to have the Holy Land Experience staff/cast members pray with them about specific issues (ie, salvation for loved ones, healing, provisions, the impossible! and the like.)

If you’re looking for a spiritual retreat and vacation rolled up into one, then I would high recommend The Holy Land Experience! Bring plenty of tissues!