Our days are identical suitcases -all the same size but some people can pack more into them than others. We have suitcases and days that are bulging. The learnings are many and fascinating. The insights meaningful and immense. As has been true of every group I have coordinated for Jim Fleming to teach, all are amazed and grateful for his knowledge and wisdom and ability to bring information and insights together.
Today we experienced the wonder of early spring wildflowers,
and the beauty of newly fallen snow. Both within just a few short miles of each other.
We looked across the border to both Lebanon and Syria and I need to add, felt no sense of dis-ease or concern, while at the same time realizing that there is the ever present sense of tension for those who live here.
Our classrooms were hillsides and next to the Jordan River. Brenda and Ashley collected Jordan River water to bring home.
Our focus and destination today was Caesarea Philippi. To the north of the Sea of Galilee, it was a place of withdrawal for Jesus and the 12. It was also the time of final preparation to head to the conflict in Jerusalem. Once Jesus heard one of his disciples (Peter) declare that Jesus was the Messiah, he set his face toward Jerusalem. The time in Galilee was a time when there was growing conflict and tension. Sadly, this is a land of tension. The saddest and most profound expression of that was the children's playground that we passed that had as it's play equipment for climbing, three very real tanks painted in primary colors; red, blue and yellow. Jesus blessed peacemakers long ago and does still today.
The three seminarians in the group bless us with their energy and enthusiasm. Joe Greemore on his head, Ashley Whitaker, and Brenda Goodman made it into the Sea of Galilee for a sunset swim. Yep, the water from the sea comes from where the snow was melting. :)
Shalom,
Mary
