FRIDAY: We had the most incredible experience at the Western Wall. We got there just a bit before the Sabbath began at 7:18 pm. I was able to write a quick prayer on a piece of paper and we headed towards the wall. Some people call it the wailing wall, and the closer we got the better I understood that. We drew nearer and as we waited our turn we were able to watch first hand others' experiences.
I saw so much beauty and light in the faces of these faithful women and girls as they worshiped. I know that the Lord is pleased when we worship Him- in whatever capacity we're able to. Surely this applies to all of His daughters. One of the girls on the trip mentioned how sad we would be if all of the temples had been destroyed and we only had one wall left of the SLC temple. I felt so blessed!!!
Ellie, Sabrina (some of my frans) and I huddled up (early enough in the year it's still chilly after sundown) and talked about how grateful we feel for the Gospel and also just the chance to be here. What a privilege. I feel like I have had so many experiences feeling God's love- I have no excuse to ever deny Him or our relationship.
We joined up with a huge circle of orthodox Jewish schoolgirls (+ some other JC [Jerusalem Center, from here on out] girls) and we swayed and joined hands and danced around while they sang their equivalent of primary songs, I'd imagine.
The cherry on top came when they broke out in Matishay's "One Day"- music video included here for the full effect.
Someone leaned over to me and said, 'THIS is making the Sabbath a delight,' and that really sunk in. Dancing and singing with those sweet sweet 8th graders was one of those moments you want to take a mental picture of and capture forever.
Saturday: We celebrate the Sabbath on Saturday here. After Fast Sabbath in the morning, we took a bus to the Garden tomb (still fasting lol).
I didn't know we were allowed to go inside?! It was so strange it was just in the middle of the city, we walked through this gate and all of a sudden we were in a total sanctuary. Everyone there was reverent and quiet as we walked around the beautiful grounds and then were able to take a quick turn inside the tomb.
He is not here for He HAS risen! Honestly the trip was pretty quick and we were in the metaphoric 11th hour of fasting so I'm looking forward to going back and spending time meditating and pondering.
SUNDAY: Al-Aqsa Mosque aka Dome of the Rock!
It was kind of fun to cover the three largest religions in the world in three consecutive days. The Dome of the Rock was stunning. The top alone is worth 70 million dollars of gold lol. Which my smart friend estimates at 11/oz that's 4,000 lbs of gold.
Everyone here is so happy and fun and welcoming. Above are some of the girls I've really clicked with and will from henceforth be referring to: Abby, me, Savannah, Caroline, Ellie and Sabrina. HAPPY HAPPY!
