Like so many pilgrims to Israel/Palestine, we wanted to see Bethlehem and Jericho. Our time in these areas was wonderful because of our guide and friend, Naser Alawy, a native of Bethlehem. As we drove south from Jerusalem, Naser met us just before we reached Rachel’s Tomb and the check point to go into Bethlehem.  He showed us where to park our rental car and ushered us through the check point. Then, we shared a deeply meaningful day in Jericho and Bethlehem.

After working as a physical therapist in Spain, Naser wanted to return home. He graduated from the tour guide program at Bethlehem Bible College. I encourage you to contact Naser if you need a guide in these areas. His email address is NaserAlawy@yahoo.com.

In addition to providing historical information and helpful driving, Naser also took us to a Palestinian restaurant for lunch, helped us choose special dishes, and shared a delicious meal with us.

As our day ended, Naser accompanied us back through the check point and escorted us to our car. As I watched Naser walk back to his home in Bethlehem, I was both grateful for a wonderful day and sad to see a special man going to the other side of concrete fences and barbed wire.

Part of the joy of travel includes seeing important places, but it is even more touching to meet wonderful, caring people. Naser is one of the special people we have met during our travels, and I feel that we have a friend in Bethlehem.

I pray for his well being and that of his family, and I hope our paths will cross again.