Preparing for the journey

Well, I’m making final preparations this week for my trip to Israel. I’ve spent time perusing the weather of Nazareth, Jerusalem, and the Dead Sea. I’ve looked over my minimalist packing and keep trying to find ways to make it less.

I know I need a few warm things, but nothing such as we need here in northern Indiana to battle the icicles and cold in this picture. I guess for Lent I’m giving up usual familiarity with how these first two weeks will go. I’m giving up the security of knowing exactly what’s around the corner and what effect it will have on me.

I’m also preparing with a sense of excitement and joy that the Lord will reveal wonderful new things to me. Bishop Ed Little, who is leading our pilgrimage, suggested that we go with high expectations. So I am.