A Day of Rest!

I awoke this morning here in Jerusalem an hour later than normal because it was Sunday.  After our packed full schedule this past week of going nonstop with learning, sightseeing, and cultural experiences I really appreciated the extra hour of sleep and the relaxed day.

We all shared in a special worship service at The Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church here in Bethlehem.  What made it so special is that our friend, Dr. Reverend Mitri Raheb that we met earlier in the week is the pastor.  The worship service was in Arabic with an English translation bulletin so that we could worship together.  I loved how the service was in both languages and appreciated how welcomed and at home they made us feel.  Our very own, Dorothy Jean Weaver, was asked to participate in the worship service by reading from Ephesians 4:14-21.  Also in attendance for this service were groups from Norway and Finland.  After the service we were invited to join the congregation for fellowship and coffee in the parish hall. 

After worship service we were on our own with free time.  Some went out for lunch, some went shopping, while others reflected, meditated, read or rested.  We are now refreshed and ready for the activities before us this week anticipating what God will reveal to us in our continued journey together as fellow travelers!