Alva Review-Courier -

A National Geographic feature this month is titled “The Search for the Real Jesus.” The pictures alone make it an emotional rollercoaster as readers follow the paths that Jesus took. When we think in terms of our own antiques, their significance pales and their ages seem trivial when compared to treasures from Jesus’ time.

The holy land continues its mystique and may contain evidence to support even more conclusively the existence of Jesus and his rise to prominence. Confined to an area no more than 50 miles in length and less in width, the paths infringe on Israel, Syria and part of Jordan.

These areas are contested today as they were in Biblical times and during the reign of Herod much construction took place: time capsules yet to be unearthed. Not as spectacular as the pyramids, Herodic fortresses stand as symbols to the oppressive power of the Romans, while the ruins of temples speak to the faith of followers.

Recently discovered: a boat in the Sea of Galilee, carbon 14 dated to the era of Jesus; a crucified man’s heel bone, impaled with a spike, found in a family tomb; and the Magdala Stone, an ancient model of the Jewish Temple.

A visit to Jerusalem should include the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, which “enshrines the place where many Christians believe Jesus was crucified, buried, and rose from the dead.”

Christmas heralds the birth of Christianity, but should also serve as a new beginning for each of us.