Today, we did the tourist circuit of Istanbul. As much as I dislike being a tourist, some cities have some pretty cool sites for tourists. Today we went to Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the underground Basilica Cisterns.
Three amazing experiences. I really must try to post pictures again.
Three amazing experiences. I really must try to post pictures again.
Yea. Not working. Please look at Mark's page. It's full of all the pictures.
Such extraordinary structures dedicated to God. Soaring heights and light dancing through space. And thick, thick history.
Hagia Sophia was originally built in 537, commissioned by the Emperor Justinian. It was converted to a mosque by Mehmet the Conquerer in 1453 and to a museum by Ataturk (father of modern Turkey) in 1935.
There is layer upon layer of history and ideology and theology in this stunning building. And masses of people coming in to view and photograph and study. And people outside trying to sell some piece of it to anyone passing by.
"But the hour is coming, and is now here, when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth..." (John 4:23)
As I traverse these amazing buildings and learn the reoccurring cycles of history I realize how difficult humanity finds this....and imagine how much God wants this...and how long God is waiting
May we all hold spirit and truth as solidly as we hold pillars and columns.
Good night