Today we spent the day in meetings with Israeli officials and guides where they shared their perspective. It is interesting to see how people view the same events differently, depending on their context. Our second purpose for this study tour was to become more fully aware of what the people in the Holy Land encounter on a daily basis. Many spoke of their dream for peace- political leaders, religious leaders, even our waiter serving us in a restaurant.
We were also reminded of who tends to the traumatized as a solution for peace is sought. An inter-religious council works diligently together to ensure that pastoral and spiritual care occurs for all. There are approximately 10,000 Christians in this area of the world; 30% of Israeli’s are religious Jews. But in the midst of the trauma and violence and war, these small numbers together with their Muslim neighbours are caring for one another and participating in the process for peace. Praying for peace, just as we care called to do.
Thank you so much for sharing glimpses of both your physical and spiritual journey in the Middle East. We have thought and prayed frequently for you and those you are traveling with. We are also praying for those whom live in the lands you are journeying through . . .
God walks with you . . . Thanks be to God!
Roxanna and Topher Duguay
I spoke to Ron Long today who mentioned we could follow your journey to the Middle East. Watching news reports (from the Middle East) while in the comfort of our safe home makes one feel so blessed that we live in relative safety compared to so many other places. None of us can imagine the utter despair of living in constant fear as the war goes on. The number of dead and wounded continues to climb yet neither side seems to take notice. Major countries (tho not all) call for a cease fire and it falls on deaf ears. The innocent suffer and die, the gunfire never stops each side saying just a little longer. We pray that sooner rather than later the hawks will come to their senses, put down their arms, stop their eye for an eye attitude and sit down like mature human beings to discuss a means of establishing a peaceful settlement. The blood has to stop flowing, the hatred has to end, the powers to be need to lead the way by example.
Marlene had her surgery on Thurs and is well on her way to recovery.
God bless each and every one of you and keep you safe.
Arnie