During this time of social distancing, I sit in my home and remember friends from each Holy Land Pilgrimage. I am full of joy remembering our silly moments and deep spiritually moving times. I am grateful for pictures to remember and technology to keep in touch.
– The Unction Stone
When talking about trips with others, the first question asked is usually about the itinerary and the sites we see. The next question is about each day, what time do you start touring? This is when we talk about the difference between a trip and a pilgrimage.
For many people, a trip is a time to get the perfect picture, sleep late, see the most sites, and insist everything run seamlessly and on time. While a pilgrimage is similar with a different attitude. A pilgrimage is about letting go of the little things and letting God lead you. For example, one trip our hotel lost power during a storm. This provided a perfect time to finish taking a shower with a flashlight as God reminded us to go to sleep and rest for the next day. The pilgrim is always looking for how God is working in the world, within the group, and in their individual life.
The Holy Land Pilgrimage Daily Routine
– the bus
A pilgrimage is a very unique experience to share with others. The bus becomes an alternate universe that transports us from one reality to another. A new rhythm of life begins as we become pilgrims in The Holy Land.
- Most mornings begin with early greetings where all are excited for the day and a little groggy from jet lag.
- Days are filled with visiting sites where we worship and remember significant events.
- Much of the day is calm and reverent. Many experience peaceful contemplation punctuated with bursts of excitement at a sight or during a swim in the Dead Sea.
- Once back on the bus we take notes, contemplate and learn more from our guide – a mobile classroom while we drive through towns where people are bustling about their daily lives.
- Evening brings us to the hotel for the evening meal followed by spontaneous discussions about the day and perhaps a worship circle.
- There is so much to talk about, no one wants the days to end.
During these exciting and emotional days we as pilgrims bond together very quickly. Over meals our chats become deep discussions and we develop meaningful relationships in a short period of time. This also allows us to bring others into our group quickly such as the guide and locals that join us periodically during the trips. Each one is special to us.
Back Home
While reflecting on the pilgrimage often makes me wonder about what it would have been like to travel with Jesus and the disciples, I also ponder how this Pandemic has changed the rhythm of my life? How can I take on a pilgrimage attitude each day while isolated and distant from others? Can I leave behind the worry about meeting deadlines, rushing everywhere, and managing over scheduled calendars? For now one thing I have learned is to find a way, each day, to focus my thoughts and energy on watching and looking to see God working in the world and my life. I encourage you to do the same.
