It’s a bit surreal. Darlene and I are within the walls of Jerusalem’s “old city” (at the Gloria Hotel, just inside the “Jaffa Gate”). For over three weeks, starting Tuesday morning, we’ll get to explore Israel with instructors at Jerusalem University College. I can’t wait! Though it’s good we have this Monday to rest after 28 or so hours of travel from Denver through London, and then a meandering shuttle from the Tel Aviv airport to Jerusalem.
This long desired visit – to the land Jesus walked – follows another kind of journey: thirty days of mostly solitude and silence at Sacred Heart Retreat House. That may seem a bit crazy, but I can honestly say: it was crazy good. Hard at times? Sure. I missed Darlene and the family, playing with the grandkids, reading more than just Scripture, and watching episodes of “Lost.” And God did some probing, exposing things I was not always comfortable facing. Mainly, though, I was allowed to face yet more of his vast love that stirred fresh hope and joy.
It’s still hard to explain. And maybe I can’t. Apparently our five year old granddaughter Meg was mystified (if not a little miffed) when she asked her Mom (Sarah): “What IS ‘Papa’ doing?” She was told that “He went to a little cabin near a town called Sedalia so he could be with Jesus.” Meg thought that was silly: “Doesn’t Papa know Jesus is everywhere… and you can be with him wherever you are?”
Indeed. It’s getting clearer for me as the years go by: the “life that is truly life” is to be present in that Presence. Whether alone at a Jesuit Retreat Center, with your best friend in Israel, back in Colorado working on the job, going to school, or at home with your Mommy asking good questions.
Thanks so much for all who have been praying for me and Darlene in this unique season of “pilgrimage” with our risen Lord! This day, may you know the reality of his loving presence.
Shalom,
Steve
Steve at his "hermitage" during his 30-day silent retreat.
Steve in front of the western wall at Jerusalem's temple mount.
No comments:
Post a Comment