As June comes to a close, I am realizing that there are just a few weeks until we depart for the Holy Land. From July 16-30 several of us from Holy Spirit will join a group at St. George's College in Jerusalem for The Palestine of Jesus course. This two week adventure will trace the steps of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection as recorded in the Gospels. It is a time of study, prayer, and shared experience through the holy sites of this ancient land.
This will be my second trip to Israel/Palestine (I was awarded a grant following seminary), yet I do not expect to have the same experience. The Holy Land is just that - a land of holy places and spaces. No matter where you turn the sights and sounds of the three great religions of Judaism, Islam, and Christianity are unavoidable. Religion and the religious life can be seen and experienced in the streets and markets wherever you go.
It is also a land deeply divided and plagued by conflict. While the vast majority of Israelis and Palestinians live peaceful lives toward their neighbors, the signs of the conflict are also unavoidable. Walls, checkpoints, and armed soldiers are the sights that also dominate the experience of a pilgrim.
Perhaps this land can be seen as a deeper reality of our lives. The paradox of holy and peaceful existing in the same space with brokenness and violence is a common human experience. Our lives are a mix of both. Yet, the Holy Land reminds me that in all of this God is near - always and everywhere.
I ask your prayers for us as we make our preparations, for our travel, and for our safe return. Check back here often, as I will try, as much as possible, to share some of our experiences with you.
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