Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Today was our last day seeing sites. Tomorrow (at 2am) we leave for the airport and begin the long journey home. I’m a little embarrassed say “long” when we just went on a pilgrimage marveling at the Israelites wandering in the wilderness for 40 years that we just traversed in days and we’ll go half way across the globe in hours (yes, many hours, but boohoo!). Today we went down to the Dead Sea and floating in the waters – at the lowest place on earth. We could see across the Sea and make out the outskirts of Jerusalem along the distant ridges behind the desolate mountains. It was the first day we’ve had anything but sun and warmth. It rained and was cool, but what a welcome the rain is to this parched land.
This has been an incredible journey! Every day was seeing something new, breathtaking and full of wonder. Equally, I am grateful for the people. This was such a great group with whom to travel. They were patient, fun, carried one another’s burdens and looked out for each other, and a joy. Grateful for the relationships that formed and/or strengthened, and to be a part of a community of faith at St. Luke. Looking forward to returning home to our loved ones, both our families at home, and at church. Godspeed.
