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Home, is where I want to be, but I guess I'm already there. - Jerusalem, Israel. March 2016

 

Where better to start a spirit-led/filled journey than in Israel? The heart of where our freedom, once foretold, now forever living in and through us. Considering the year journey that is ahead and the preparation we have already been through, I stood in awe at the panoramic view that would be ours for the next 3 days and nights. Old City Jerusalem, you beauty. On the rooftop of the Citadel Hostel, we pitched our tents. I couldn't think of a better place to kick-start our pilgrimage than right here, and in such historical fashion. The symbolism is most profound.

 

On the mount of olives, we were joyfully deceived. The open invitation to eat Palestinian cuisine in the abode of some persistent women, came as a blessing considering the amount of stairs we had just climbed. One by one we were lured in, to taste the bread with oil and spice, and then more, yoghurt, olives and falafel. What a reward. Having finished our tea, with the discomfort of discovering it all comes at a cost - naïve tourists - we walked away with 100 less shekels. Still, we bargained well! 

 

Strolling the streets of Jerusalem is fascinating. Along the Via Delarosa we journeyed, through the churches, passing some tombs. Like travelers among the tourists we missioned intentionally to find worth. That we found in the form of falafel sandwiches. We also entered the section of the wailing wall as tourists, initially. When we left it, it was hardly the same place - at least not to us. Like Africans dance around a fire, so we danced as we sang, 'al julle volke klap julle hande' in front of the wailing wall. Thus, we had initiated Jerusalem leaving it with our mark, making it our own. 

 

If ever we needed confirmation of being in the right place at the right time, we received it at the Prayer centre, Jerusalem. What a place of peace, seriously. Meeting Tom and Sharon was greatly encouraging. It was as though they took us in like only a father and mother could, feeding us with their fellowship. Together we prayed for them living in Jerusalem. It can't be easy staying amongst the unrest within and surrounding the city, and still they are taking servanthood to the next level. Jerusalem, we pray for your peace. May your eyes be opened and your hearts be like flesh, softened to receive the good news.

 

Furthermore, we missioned through the markets and then, Mousseline - exotic ice creams. Arabic coffee, masala chai and cinnamon. Wow. And still hummus, tahini, halva - the works. From there i went to tel aviv, which for 4 months had been my home. It sure felt that way as I was visiting friends, bringing back memories of summer, surfing and more significant memories - the ultimate 'manny diaries'. I arrived back in Jerusalem that evening rewarding myself with Ben and Jerry's cookies and cream ice cream - the same way I did most nights when staying in Israel previously. Sweet memories.

 

It matters not where we are or what we experience, our foundation remains, God with us. - Home is wherever we are when we are with you.

 

Coming to you live from Sofia, Bulgaria.