Would you ever consider flying to a war zone to show solidarity to a group of people you’ve never met?  That’s exactly what 20 of us did thirteen days ago.  We spent 10 days traveling to various parts other Israel, from the north down to the south central section of Israel.  We stood at the Syrian border and talked about the difficult neighborhood that Israel is located in.

We began The Lord’s Day with a time of worship at the pool of Siloam in the City of David. As I was taking it all in, I also rejoiced over knowing that the presence of God was also with my family and our church family. It was truly a touch of heaven.

It’s the Sabbath today in Israel, and I visited the place of healing. The Bible calls it, the pool of Bethesda. Bethesda means "house of mercy" or "house of grace." It comes from: Beth – Meaning house Chesed – Kindness, mercy or grace. You may be familiar with the word because it’s connected with some of the hospitals across America.

This morning started early with a session (7:30 AM) and then on to Yad Vashem where we had a personal guide to take us through the museum. Although I’ve been there before, today was significant because we heard the “back stories” that can only be told by those who know them.

The morning started early with a speaker at 7:30 and then packed and loaded, we’re on our way to the Syrian border. I wonder what this day will hold as we are high alert, emotionally, spiritually and our bodies are tired by the weight of the mission. Last night was an incredible time of meeting with some very young IDF soldiers who were so grateful for our love and encouragement.

For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent,
for Jerusalem’s sake I will not remain quiet,
till her vindication shines out like the dawn,
her salvation like a blazing torch. I have posted watchmen on your walls, Jerusalem; they will never be silent day or night.
You who call on the Lord,
give yourselves no rest, and give him no rest till he establishes Jerusalem
and makes her the praise of the earth.

Arriving at the Ben Gurion airport, although the plane was full, the tourist lines were empty. The hallways of the airport were lined with the faces of those still being held hostage in Gaza. The sorrow and grieving, tangible and palatable. People were serious and focused on their destination. Gatherings and greetings were marked by the effects of 10/7 and walls came down as people realized what we were doing.

Today as the group gathers in the John F Kennedy airport the sense of mission and destiny is profound. To answer “the call” is to step into something more than just our own wants and wishes, it’s rising to something much higher than that.