We are all on a pilgrimage.

A journey.

We are making our way from our birthplace to our heavenly home.

We are called to devote every day here on earth to completing our God-given purpose.

We are called to grow deeper each week in our relationship with God.

We are called to let God change us to be more and more like Christ every year.

Almost 2 years ago, I had the opportunity to make a pilgrimage to Israel.

It was a very different, and yet familiar, place.

I had heard and read so much about what had happened in Jerusalem that I experienced an odd sense of deja vu as we pushed through its crowded streets.

Tears rolled off my face as we made our way down the Via Delarosa – the Way of Suffering – where my Savior dragged my cross that day so long ago.  In my mind, I could hear the shouting and the curses of thousands of years ago bouncing off the stone walls on either side of me.

And, then……..

the overwhelming peace and stillness of the garden.

It was done.

The price was paid.

And Jesus was no longer there.  He had risen, just as he said!

Amen!  Hallelujah!

The years of our pilgrimage here on earth are not easy…..

but we know where this journey ends.

At home.

Full of joy.

Surrounded by peace.

With our Father.

Thank you, Abba.