Egypt #4: Covering a Lot of Ground
Covering a Lot of Ground
For the team, by Jason Sentas
First Presbyterian Church, Mooresville, NC
Sunday started with a 3:30 am wake-up call, followed by 4:00 am breakfast. Our ride to the airport was delayed, leaving us a bit behind schedule. But have no fear, Mourad Sedky, our super guide, was there. He hustled to get us to the front of the line, parting the teeming masses of travelers like Moses parted the Red Sea. At 6:15 am we left Cairo and headed to Aswan.
In Aswan, which is about 600 miles south of Cairo, we were picked up by our local guide and taken for a tour of the High Dam. This dam has created the second-largest man-made lake in the world, Lake Nassar. We also toured two historical sites, the Temple at Kom Ombo and the Temples of Philae. Our super guide Mourad explained Egyptian history, a ton of fun facts, and how the Isis Temple was used by Christians as a church for a short period. Following our tour of the first site, we left on a boat and docked at The Old Nubian Guesthouse and ate traditional Nubian food. It was delicious!
At this point, we were pretty tired, so we set our sights on the hotel. The Besma, which means smile, was just what we needed. Its stunning view, refreshing pool, and exceptional staff hit the spot. About 3½ hours later, we were refreshed and back on the road.
We arrived at Kom Ombo Presbyterian Church at 6:30 pm and the courtyard was buzzing with excitement. Children were clamoring to say hello, church members offered glad greetings, and Pastor George Ezzat and some church leaders met us with gracious hospitality. We worshipped together, Kimmy Briggs hit another home run with her message, and the church leadership shared about the ministries of the church and the vision for the future. Wow!
We arrived back at the hotel at 10:30 pm just in time to eat dinner. One of the verses from Kimmy's message, Isaiah 43:5 reads, "fear not, for I am with you." As we flew, bussed, boated, and walked most of this day away, it was clear that the Lord was with us each step of the way. And when we arrived at the church, it was clear the Lord was right there with them as well. As we see God working all over Egypt, it's our prayer that these reports are a reminder that the Lord is also with you.
