Hidden

Normally with my blog, I try to publish at least two photos per entry. Today's entry only has one. Hidden behind these walls is one of only a handful of Jewish synagogues still standing in the Jewish Ghetto in Venice. The story behind the Jewish settlement is not unlike many others across the world. They came to the area during around 500 years ago to seek a new life, one free from the persecution they were enduring. What they found was a city that, while welcoming their services, kept them hidden in their own neighborhood. The Jews were not allowed to own land which kept them from farming. They were, however, allowed to be doctors (dealing with blood and sick bodies was not a welcome profession) and bankers (charging interest was considered a sin to many in that time). They could do these things, so long as they wore their yellow and retired to their quarters by curfew. There were synagogues built on top of existing structures representing different languages from the existing regions the Jews came from. These synagogues are still used for special services today. Unfortunatley, the Ghetto only has about 200 or so Jews, but they still have a visible presence in the area. I think it is important that we remember the lessons that history has taught us, look to what the Bible says about God's people, and treat others as you would be treated. Jews throughout history have been cast aside, but God is still in control. We could all use a reminder when interacting with fellow man: Matthew 7:12 "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."