"Ephesus: Avoid the Traffic Jam!"

Theatrical performances during the summer

The ancient city of Ephesus, high on the list for tourists, continues to draw in visitors in ever greater numbers. Christians associate the city with Saint Paul's experiences there, recorded in Acts 19 and 20. The book of Ephesians is, for many Christians, one of the most commonly quoted parts of the New Testament.

Secular people associate Ephesus with the Province of Asia Minor during the time of the Roman Empire. Its impressive ruins are well preserved. According to Hurriyet Daily News, in Turkey, "about 1.9 million visitors strolled through the streets of Ephesus this last year. A total of 3.25 million people visited Ephesus and other "open air" museums, which included Pergamum, located in the city of Bergama.

This area of Turkey is known to students of the Bible as the area of the "Seven Churches", so named because of the first three chapters of the book of Revelation.

"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!" (Eph 3:20,21) These are two of our favorite verses, guideposts for ministry and relationships all our lives. What are you asking God for this year? What are you imagining? Expect greater blessings - Because He is able!

If you are planning a trip to Ephesus this year: a) choose the months of March to May, and September to November as times with the least traffic on the streets. b) if you  visit between June and August, arrive early. Sometimes more than 10,000 people plug the streets making it difficult to enjoy the historic nature of the timeless ruins.