Final post from Jerusalem.

…last celebrations and hoorahs.

Well. Here we are. Life is full to the brim with sorting, selling, packing, and goodbyes. BUT we are making sure to savor every last bit in the midst of preparations.

My treasured view of all of our walking here.

Graduation.

Graduation was a beautiful celebration. It moved us all to be together and celebrate the accomplishments of our friends (and the Professor, of course). I inhaled deeply and treasured in my heart the gathering of nations that have come together and become friends for the sake of moving God’s kingdom forward. What a unique opportunity we have had to be here with everyone. My mama heart is especially thankful for my children getting to love and be loved by these dear ones. (For security purposes, we were asked to not post pictures of the ceremony. But I’ve included the picture of our family and a short video showing the flags of all the nations represented.)

One last adventure.

Yesterday we ventured out in the Old City one last time. The tour included visits to the Temple Mount, Church of the Holy Seplchre, and the Garden Tomb. We walked part of the Via Dolorosa, stopped for shawarma and cokes, did some souvenir shopping and ended the day with kanafa and one last visit to Teddy Park. I savored every bit of those 9 miles.

Appropriately packaged shawarma. 😄

Kanafa

While we are doing our best to say good goodbyes here, our entire family is very much looking forward to boarding the plane next week. Love to you all and looking forward to sharing our debrief and final thoughts with you from HOME SWEET HOME.