Who are you?! And why are you here?!

I'm sitting down at the end of a very long day staring at the inky blackness of the Dead Sea trying to write this blog, which, for reasons lost on me now, I happily volunteered to write early this morning! After a day and a half of travel and just shy of three hours sleep, legally I shouldn't make any decisions. Other than the faint lights of Jordan across the water it is a vast nothingness, somewhat, I feel, like my mind. So tired and already so much information it seems my thoughts have settled to a nice buzz. Yet write I must and I think the best thing to do is go a little Julie Andrews (which I'm reminded of after hearing Scott do a little "Do, Re, Me" hiking through the Valley of Elah...yup) and start at the very beginning...as it is the very best place to start and all.

If you know David, or Scott, or me, or really any pastor, you know that we have certain stories we love and, consequently, tell them over and over. So, first thing this morning when Scott began telling the story of the Rabbi, who lost in thought, unknowingly lost on his path, and confronted by a soldier, I knew where he was going and what the "punch-line" would be. A hazard for pastors is to listen to a story for technique more than message, something I was leaning towards, but caught myself. I quickly recognized the fact we as a group, some veterans and others, like me, rookies, were standing on a crest looking over the Holy Land. I was hearing this story in a different place, a holy place and so, hearing it with different ears.

"Who are you?! And why are you here?!" Questions I've asked myself countless times, even somewhat recently, but to ask them here? Yes please. Today I got to ask as we walked through the wadi where David picked up five smooth stones. And when we stood on top of the crossroads. And again, and again. Today I was able to begin a journey sharpening my call as to who I am and why I am here.

These questions will no doubt be ringing through my ears and, more than likely those of my fellow pilgrims, in the weeks to come. I look forward to hearing what God has to say!...and maybe a little more Julie Andrews...cause who doesn't like Mary Poppins?!

Grace and Peace
Michael