Going Home Day

Thank you so much for going on this journey to Israel with me. I pray it has encouraged you to go and experience it for yourself. Stay tuned for one more post or so to wrap up my Israel trip. 

But, first here is the post about going home.

Our last walk to the wall brought a flood of emotions. This was it. It was ending. Despite the need to pack and the exhaustion from jet lag, I could not say no to one last walk. And when I say the need to pack, I mean the NEED to pack. We were leaving for the airport after breakfast and this is what our room looked it. 

Most of this mess was mine. I am one who thrives on clean and order, but in a hotel that is hard. I want my stuff out and ready to use. (Please make note of the made beds.) Now, you understand my need to pack. But, my need to feel the amazing night air of Israel, to spend time one last moment with my friends, and to pray at the Western Wall was greater. When we got back to our room that night we did pack a little and we got it all done in time to leave the next morning. The emotions that flooded me the night before were stronger as we prepared to go. Don't get me wrong, I was thrilled to see my family. 

However, as we drove to the airport tears rolled down my cheeks as I leaned my head against the window and stared out. I didn't want to leave. There was so much I didn't see. When would I get to come back? I was leaving a piece of my heart there.

Two years later, I still have a piece of my heart there. G-d placed Israel, her people, and the Hebrew language in my heart long before I said yes to going. He grew those roots deeper as I walked in the air of Israel amidst the history, the deeply rooted faith, and the people. 

Because I experienced this adventure my life will never be the same. When I listen to my pastor talk about places in the Bible, I get it, because I have seen it. I have walked where Jesus walked. I have seen His Jewish roots. When my Jewish friends show pictures or discuss things, I get it because I was there, I walked where our forefathers walked. 

This journey has grown my faith, expanded my knowledge, and left me more in awe of G-d. 

And it continues today.

We don't have to travel the globe to have a moment with the Lord. He will meet us where we are. We don't have to learn Hebrew to have the Bible make an impact on us. Although, I suggest doing both. It is a faith changer. 

But, we do have to love G-d's people and His land. 

 As I write this on Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Memorial Day, we have to remember.

We have to stand with them and say never again.