Day Two: Colossae, Laodicea, Hierapolis, and Pamukkale

We awoke to the beautiful sunrise, hovering over the Mediterranean Sea. After a delicious authentic Turkish breakfast, we began our journey to Colossae, a three hour drive from our location. Along the drive, I imagined Paul and his companions making this very same journey. Pressing on through rugged mountains and intense heat, these apostles yearned to see the pagan people of Asia Minor come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

We arrived at the archeological tel (Arabic word meaning “mound” or “hill”) of Colossae, where the drama of reconciliation between Philemon and Onesimus became a reality. This mound is one of three biblical sites in Turkey yet to be excavated by archeologists (along with Lystra and Derbe). As of now, Colossae lies buried beneath history. One can only imagine the depth of treasures waiting to be discovered.

From Colossae, we continued to retrace the steps of Paul as we explored the ancient ruins of Laodicea (Col 2:1; 4:13-16, Rev 1:11; 3:14). Strolling through the streets we came across the impressive pagan temple of Apollo as well as an early church built during the reign of Constantine. It was indeed striking to see these two architectural achievements juxtaposed. In the one, carvings of deer adorned the pillars. Within the other, beautiful mosaic floors, a Christian fish, a baptistery, and an altar colored the church with the beauty of ritual.

Our final destination proved to be the highlight for many in our group— Hierapolis (Col 4:13). It is here, among the tombs, that Philip the apostle was buried. Phillip, one of the twelve whom Jesus called to follow him, journeyed from Jerusalem on foot to Hierapolis, burning with zeal for the Lord. Historical accounts share that Philip successfully converted many in Heropolis, including the governor’s wife. The enraged governor killed his wife, and dragged Philip along the rocky road and hung him by his feet, where he died. This Philip, one of the twelve, a believer in Christ, served faithfully and indeed fulfilled Christ’s call to preach “to the ends of the earth” (Matt 28:18). In remembering his death, we praise God for how he served with his life.

We concluded our day beholding the breathtaking vistas of Pamukkale. The hot springs from the mountain, rich in calcium, have produced pools of mineral deposits over time. These white cliffs form pools down the side of the mountain. In Turkey, this place is known as the “cotton castle.”

Settling down for the night in a spa resort hotel, we eagerly await the adventures tomorrow has in store.