Sierra Pacific Synod’s Holy Land Solidarity Pilgrimage - Day 7

Today was the last day of our journey together. It has been a wonderful, inspiring and enriching experience. And also physically and emotionally exhausting. Today we were in the old town of Jerusalem, where we walked in the steps of Jesus one last time. We began at the Temple Mount, under the shadow of the Dome on the Rock, and overlooking the Western Wall. So much history on this terrace. So many disagreements over this land. Beauty and sorrow intertwined. 

Then together we walked the Way of the Cross, station by station, remembering the suffering Jesus endured, yet still connected to the present day of market stalls as far as the eye can see. A reminder that life goes on, day by day, year by year.  Finally, the narrow alleys open up to a square in front of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. We walk the final stations, we touch ancient stones, and I listen for the Holy Spirit as I take the final steps and enter the tomb. So much pain and anguish, yet we know there will be light again. 

We end the day at the Western Wall (formerly known as the Wailing Wall). Rain falls from the sky, and the cold wind blows, which seems fitting for such a contested place. History is never clean, never simple, and the turmoil in this place is almost palpable. Small pieces of paper are visible in nearly every nook and cranny. The prayers of multitudes of pilgrims who have journeyed here. I did not have a piece of paper, but I added my prayer as well - for peace to finally come to this sacred land.

I am grateful to have been able to come on this journey. And while this one may be ending, the greater journey of living the Gospel of Jesus continues. 

Greg Brorby 

University Lutheran Chapel of Berkeley