Our family is getting ready to board a 777 bound for London. For
years we dreamed of visiting Israel – and soon we will fly away and vanish into
the clouds with souvenirs in our suitcases, stamps in our passports, memories
in our hearts, and pictures…many pictures. I suppose those things will
eventually collect dust and my passport will expire. But to travel in Israel –
is to be impacted forever.
I can’t explain it…so why blog? Why journal? Why think? This
place has been more than tels, ancient rocks, and impressive historical sites.
For each one of us it has been a deeply personal journey to the One who is
alive and dwells in our hearts.
Yesterday morning, our last full day in Jerusalem, we had a
couple hours of solitude at the Garden Tomb. It is hands down my favorite place
in all of Israel. Perhaps it is because it is so very empty! =)
It was incredible to hear other tour groups singing in their language. Even the
birds were chirping praises. Last week Michael was baptized at the Jordan River
(it was awesome!) In his testimony he shared Philippians 3:10 as his desire. I
thought of it as I sat looking at the empty tomb…” that I may know Him and the power of His
resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings,” That is what I want
from this trip and as we go from here – to know Jesus Messiah.
Today we road down our forever-slow-elevator at the
apartment one last time…and were for once grateful it took forever long.
Today we ate falafel for the last time. Monica will be going
through withdrawal…but we plan to put her on a special medication for that soon
called European Chocolate.
Today we hugged little Hanoch and Yosef extra tight.
Today we sang as we left Jerusalem. The Barkman’s were
missed. We tried not to look back at the city as we sang #16. There is still
something special about singing in Jerusalem.
Today we returned Dearly
to the Avis rental car company. She was faithful to take us many places.
Today we were stamped out of Israel.
Right now the plane is boarding...must go. Shalom…until London…
**P.S. Anyone who reads the Bible should travel to Israel...and even if you think you can't - you should at least have the dream in your heart.
**P.S. Anyone who reads the Bible should travel to Israel...and even if you think you can't - you should at least have the dream in your heart.
Oh guys.
ReplyDeleteteresa, thanks for almost making me cry. again. :)
This was beautiful.
That is how Israel will be remembered, not tels, and ruins, but a closer walk with our Jesus.
Here's the plan:
Have an incredible time in europe, blog lots, talk in British accents all the time, buy a last espresso somewhere,
and get here.