Just a Few More Thoughts

Today is the first day of getting back into a regular routine.  The days haven't held any pressing appointments or the like, so I have gone through them at my leisure.  I was too jet lagged to go to Tuesday leadership meeting but I came to Bible study today and it was fun being a participant.  Donna did a great job in facilitating our group and Jennifer, teaching director, sat in.  Our group had perfect attendance which is not bad for the first meeting of the new year.  Afterwards Peggy, Kathleen and I went out to lunch.  For friends who have just spent a lot of time together on a trip we weren't in too big of a hurry to leave Lupe's.  Sounds like I made a good decision on not going to Rome. 

I just about have all the Christmas decorations packed up.  This weekend Roy said he would help me rearrange some of the storage bins and then we will take them over to the storage unit. 

It is hard to believe that Jerusalem had snow this week and that storms had washed out some of the very roads we'd been on.  The weather was perfect when we were there.  I have loved having the luxury of time to think about last week.  I didn't go with the thought that I would get a 'word' about specific situations but knew to expect the wonder of God being in the land He made and chose for His people.  I feel like I have a better understanding of the land and how God uses His land even today to fulfill prophecies.  Maybe even coming home with a new appreciation for God's timing.  I'm still contemplating and praying for specific conversations that occurred during that week.  Sometimes we have to get out of our own backyard to gain new vision and perspective.  This year seems to be the year of new beginnings, a new thing, a new walk and a new way to live.  Love the verses to be prayed through that He has given for my year and for the year of close friends.  I've been reading through a book that Roy gave me this summer about the Holy Land.  It isn't a travel guide but it is more like a book that holds your interest much more after the trip. 

Jerusalem is a whirl of activity and so much to see.  Tiberius was a welcomed change of pace.  Loved our boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.  I could do that several times on a visit.  Many of us commented that we now understand why Jesus would retreat for renewal and for ministry in and around this area. 

Maybe tomorrow I will write about my favorite place on the trip.  Haven't sorted through it all yet.