Preparing to go

Each pilgrim in our group of 23 is making final preparations for our journey to Israel and Jordan. The last few hours are priceless for those of us who are procrastinators when it comes to packing. Yet, we've spent the last 5-7 months dreaming about the upcoming experience. Current events in this region of the world have opened our eyes in how to pray for all involved in crisis, uncertainty, violence and heartbreak. We anticipate days ahead and pray towards the hope that we may be good stewards of what we experience.

Now, we turn our attention to the pilgrimage before us. A chance to walk in the footsteps of Jesus--imagine the hillside where He taught, close our eyes and hear the wind and the waves, place our feet on the soil (well not the exact soil) where early Christians (followers of the Way) wrestled to make sense of the gospel good news. Along our journey, we will post pictures for family and church family that follow along. Some of us will be sharing insights and questions that will be stirred up. Millions have made this same pilgrimage, but we find ourselves ready to make it personal, yet communal. Current yet historic. Individual yet joining with other pilgrims who have said for ages "let us go up to Jerusalem."

We recall the psalm of David (Psalm 131) "I have stilled and quieted myself, just as a small child is quiet with its mother. Yes, like a small child is my soul within me. O Israel (people of G-d), put your hope in the LORD, now and always." --Melissa Maher