"You can see and touch the places that once seemed like only a story. It becomes literally rock solid."
You might think — as I did — that the Jordan River was like the Mississippi. It's not. You imagine all kinds of things when you read about these places, but nothing compares to standing there in person. Do you need to visit Israel to have a strong faith? No. But experiencing it leaves no doubt about what you've read.
The People Make It
Then there are the people you meet. I've heard of some having difficult encounters, but we never have. Conversations with Israelis have always been eye-opening and pleasant — on a bus, waiting for a tour to begin, or with a shop owner curious about why we were visiting. They thanked us for being there. We were the ones who felt blessed — and they thanked us.
Why I Built This
My motivation for the Roots to Israel app and website was originally for my own use. I wanted something that would give me basic information on each site, show me where they were, let me take my own notes, and keep my itinerary in one place. I couldn't find what I wanted — so I built it. Then I thought others might want the same thing.
Tracey and I have a heart to help others visit Israel. Most 8–14 day tours run $5,000 or more per person. That's a real barrier. We've done four-week trips for less than that — staying in Airbnbs, using public transportation, preparing our own meals. I'm not discouraging organized tours; in fact, I recommend going with a group for your first trip and have recommendations on this site. But cost doesn't have to be the reason you never go.
"One estimate suggests that only 5% of all Christians will visit Israel in their lifetime. I'd like to do my part to help raise that number."
Our hope is simple: that you fall in love with the land, the people, and the God of Israel — and that you get to visit at least once in your lifetime.
The land is waiting. Let's help you get there.
— Ron & Tracey Colling
