Feb. 18 District Conference

Feb. 18 District Conference

In case you didn’t catch the idea from the title, today was Israel District Conference. We had Elder Rasband (in the Presidency of the Quorum of the Seventy) here with us, which was really neat. I loved listening to all the testimonies and stories of all the speakers. I have realized how difficult life can be for the saints here. How the Seperation Wall has isolated the saints in the West Bank. I can see that these people testimonies are so string because of the hardships they have to face. My favorite part of the day was in the Student’s Fireside with a musical number. The music was so beautiful, I don’t remember the title but it started out with the Becca on the piano, Courtney N. and Danielle on violins, and then Courtney B. on the cello; then Jen singing. I just felt a surge of the spirit when they started playing. The meeting was question and answer which was great as well but the music is what really made me feel the spirit today. After the meeting I just knew that I needed to get out and write. So that is what I did and this is what I wrote:

I Will Come

Lord, you want me to fly,

To fly on my own.

So, I try a little bit harder,

Flap my wings a little bit faster,

Push myself a little bit farther.

My goal beyond the haze in the distance

So far away is where You are.

When my heart fails me -

I can no longer keep going.

Is when you send your Son

To aid me; help me keep faith; remind me:

My family, united

Once again, my driving force.

Loved ones no longer near,

Heavenly Parents:

Loving, desiring my return.

My mind is set:

“Lord, I will come.

How could I stay?

After what you have done.

Lord, I will come.”

Here

Here ––

Here Lord is where I long to stay.

Here, where your love is sufficient..

Lord it is here, in Your arms that I feel safe

Safe from the cold, from the loneliness,

From the trials and the hurt.

Here, in Your arms, I long to stay.

But, Lord why am I so quick to distract/

So quick to turn and wander...

To leave Thee Lord. Why, Lord, am I so fallen?

So easily swayed back to the natural man?

Time and time again, Lord I leave Thee,

Taken for granted, with only myself,

My wretched ungrateful, forgetful self to blame.

Without fail Lord, I stumble, I cry, I fall,

And once again you are there.

There to help, to send me a friend

To dry my tears, to lift me up and let me try again.

It is here, Lord, here with You,

Continually ascending higher

Here dependent on You.

Here ––

Here Lord is where I long to stay.

Here, where your love is sufficient..

Lord it is here, in Your arms that I feel safe

Safe from the cold, from the loneliness,

From the trials and the hurt.

Here, in Your arms, I long to stay.

Forever At His Feet

Forever At His Feet

~St. John 9:1-12

–He stopped for me.
On the corner of the street I lie with no sight-–
At His feet I plea.

“Who did sin?” ask the three
When they see my eyes clouded by forever night.

–He stopped for me.

Astounded that I was chosen when you didn’t leave;
My hands search for Him in my delight.
At His feet I plea.

Spittle made from clay, and I believe;
His thumbs anoint mine eyes, my wretchedness despite.
–He stopped for me.

“Go wash in the pool of Siloam,” directs He.
As I washed, came colors to my vision bright:
At His feet I plea

Through His love He has made me free
Never will I forget the man in White who showed me light.
–He stopped for me.
At His feet I will plea.

Photo: Mark Mabry

City of David/Hezekiah's Tunnel

City of David FT:
Well, I woke up feeling like I was getting up 3 hours before I was supposed to even though I only got up 5 minutes earlier than normal. Got ready and prepared for a cold tunnel with cold water. We walked there and I walked with Kyle and John and Kelsey... the back of the group group.
Once we got to David’s City we walked around looked over the Kidron Valley and the Tiroypian Valley and then could see the start of the Henian Valley (all of those could be spelled wrong) We learned about how this could have been near Laban’s palace (saw what could have been and olden day toilet). Then saw in the glasi (built up wall for defense) the different time periods between the Canaanite time and the Temple period (not sure if it was the first or the second temple period) Then we went down to where they think King David and Solomon were buried which was very against the norm because the dead were usually buried outside the city because dead bodies were seen as unclean and would defile the city...
Down into Hezakiah’s tunnel, the stairs were super steep and it was pretty dark, I am glad the people around me had lights with them otherwise it would have been an awesome but crazy experience. Once I had my water shoes on I started shuffling at the top of the stairs then I looked down and realized that there were two European men just on the stairs watching me, I just laughed and was like sorry; to which they just were like oh no problem and laughed at me or with me Im not sure of the difference. haha. Once again I was in the back of the group which was fun. My friend Kyle was able to get his pants up super high (to the point of them being booty short length, I got mine mid thigh which I thought was pretty good but Kyle def. won). The water was surprisingly clean and not super cold. I didnt need my jacket in fact it was kinda warm and stuffy in the tunnel but it was so much fun. for the most part the water was up to my ankles, only on occasion did it make it above my knees. Once out of the tunnel (approx. 30 min. later) there was a little area with 4 mini pillars where Aimee, Kelsey, and I pretended to be water fountains. Then the two european men from earlier came out of the tunnel and one was just in his underwear and a t shirt while the other was in a white speedo. We all were dying trying to contain ourselves. Um Kyle may or may not have gotten them in the back of some of my photos haha.
After we walked around the corner of the Pool of Siloam (where the blind man was healed) We read the story and Bro. Harper has such great insight on all of the scriptures. I loved how he emphasized how the man’s testimony was all that mattered and that the Pharisees and saducess could only focus on the fact that Christ performed the miracle on a Sunday and therefore was of the devil. They couldn't accept the fact that he was doing the work of God. After I read my poem to the class (Forever at His Feet) I got super nervous to read it in front of everyone but I am so glad that I had that opportunity. Afterward a lot of people asked if I had written it and if they could have a copy, I was really happy that people liked it. I wasn't sure if the whole meaning would stand on its own but I think it did which I am thrilled about. I wonder if my writings will ever go anywhere and become an accomplished hobby. That would be amazing, being able to write for the church and do things I love to do.
After lunch I went to Jimmy and Omars (olive wood carvings). I felt the spirit so strong there with all of the stories that wood was telling. Omar said in 2 to 3 weeks he might have the blind man being healed done. I had asked about it and he showed me the crippled being healed and I was like no I want the one of the blind man. He jokingly said oh well then Ill just take off the stick and then he will be the blind man. So I said oh well then can you add the Pool of Siloam too. Then he was like ya but got all excited like he was seeing an ideal come to his mind then he told me that if I would give him 2 to 3 weeks that he could have one. Ah I got so excited cause that would be amazing! I just wanted to buy everything in the store. It was all such a God given talent. I seriously teared up in the store because Christ really was here and He really did heal so many people and administered to the poor, hungry, and needy.
I just want to end with something spiritual and bear my testimony: I know this gospel is true. I know that we are children of our Heavenly Parents and because of that fact they love us unconditionally. I know that they are so proud to call you Their son because you are devoting your time to serving His other children, and I know that there is a purpose that I am here in Jerusalem wether it is merely to be able to share this experience and touch someone's life. I know that because Joseph Smith believed in God and was willing to pray to Him we have the restored gospel. I know that Christ suffered for our sins and that He is the ultimate example. I know that even through hard times Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ are always there to help us get back up and walk again. I say these in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Shephelah Field Trip

Today we went on the Shephelah field trip. Shephelah means the low hills. It contains the cities Beth Shemesh, Azekah, Mareshah and Lachish; then Aijalon, Sorek, Elah, and Guvrin Valley.
Our first stop was Beth Shemesh that looks over the Sorek Valley. Sadly it was cloudy and drizzling, but on the bright side it wasn’t super cold or windy. Plus, I learned that pictures turn out better when it is overcast (Who knew? I didn’t) It was gorgeously green. The rain has made everything beautiful. I was expecting desert when I came but love seeing the green grass, breath taking red poppies, yellow and purple mustard flowers. I could have stood on the top of that hill the whole day but they keep us on a tight schedule here. Thus, we get out of the bus get to our destination, learn what has happened at each place, sing some hymns if time allows, take some pictures, and back to the bus. Anyways, back to Beth Shemesh: it is believed to be the place where the story of Samson takes place.
Stop 2: Azekah. This is hill overlooked the place where the battle of David and Goliath is thought to have taken place (The Valley of Elah). Our class reenacted the story of David and I must say I have some great actors in my class. I have heard these stories countless times in primary, sunday school, and seminary; but, going to these places and having this amazing chance to come to Israel and be able to put a place with the story. To see the mountains/hills that would have been the Philistine and Israelite camps is adding a whole new element to my testimony.
Stop 3: City of Lachish. This was a Israelite city that was taken over by the Assyrians. It is amazing that they were able to conquer the city because the city was on the top of a hill then had walls all around. The Assyrians built a siege ramp which would have taken many lives and time; though, in the end they ended up taking the city. Moral of the story is that if we do not have God with us we cannot prevail. We walked up to the top of the city and had the other class attempt to attack (throw rocks up the hill...um they didn’t even come close to hitting us...so if it had been a real battle I think my class would have had the winning advantage). Also, the Room of Letters is here... basically a room where they found pottery shards that had writing on them. One of them says, "And let [my lord] know that we are watching for the signals of Lachish, according to all the indications which my lord hath given, for we cannot see [the signal fires of] Azekah." This means that when the signal fires at Azekah could no longer be seen that they had been destroyed by the Babylonians and that Lachish was next to be conquered. I imagine that it would be terrifying to think that I was the next city to have to go to battle. It is amazing what people had to live through back then.
Stop 4: Fortress of Mareshah looks Guvrin Valley. This city is known for their olive presses, wine presses, Sidonian cemeteries, and then dovecotes. Yep, they raised doves for food, rituals, and sacrifices. Mareshah was my favorite place though because we sang hymns in the bottom of a cistern (a hole dug in the ground to store water) and I felt the Spirit so strong singing all together. We sang: Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing, Be Still My Soul, EFY Medley, and How Great Thou Art. The first song brought me into the mindset then by the second song I was tearing up and crying by the end. I kept thinking of how seeing the same valleys and rivers that are described in the Bible is so amazing. I am truly having the experience of a lifetime and am so grateful to be able to here, my purpose here is still unknown to me but I hope that I will be able to live up to all that God has in store for me. I realized there is so much I can be. Now it is my choice to Be. Then, we learned how to use a sling like David used on Goliath. I wasn't half bad haha. My athletic ability has come in handy.
Stop 5: Last Stop-Bell Caves. It was interesting there. They mined chalk here, digging from the top and then hollowing out holes that ended up looking like bells. We sang some more song and then took some pictures. One of the exits to the cave was shaped like a heart (thats for my mommy cause I know that she loves them)

Catch Up!

As for what I have been doing... Living in Jerusalem and seeing the Dome of the Rock every morning is amazing! I still feel like I am living in a dream. Then we have taken field trips to Jericho where they think that the Israelites came and the walls came tumbling down, then we saw the kings high way, Judean wilderness, Garden Tomb (thought to be Christ's tomb), and the wilderness of Sin. (Places mentioned in the OT) I have looked over Bethlehem but haven't been yet. I dont know how to constantly prepare myself for everything I am learning here, and to feel the Spirit adequately. Then this past week we were in Jordan. I went to Petra! Oh my goodness it is amazing what they could build back then and how they could survive in the middle of no where. They were extremely creative in how they had water systems and could store water if they had to live purely off of rain water. Oh and guess what?!!! I rode a camel! IT was the highlight of Petra for me! It was so so much fun. The most surprising thing here is seeing how many people smoke. Then we went to an Islamic mosque. It is amazing how many similarities there are between our religion and theirs. Though I still disagree how the women have to cover up out of respect but the men don’t have to do any of that. Gender equality is a lot different here... Simply smiling at people is flirty and a woman isn't supposed to go out without the accompany of a man (brother, father, or husband). While we were in Jordan we saw Mt. Nebo (where Moses died/was translated), Machreas (where it is thought to be the place that John the Baptist was beheaded, so a Herodean palace). Also, we went to the River Jordan where John the Baptist baptized Christ! It was really neat to be in the place or a similar place that Christ would have been in. Also, I love how much we sing here. We are singing hymns in other's churches, Roman citadels, Greek theaters, on top of mountains, on the bus, in valleys, and pretty much at every stop. I have truly come to know how hymns and singing is prayer unto God. It amazes me how quickly the Spirit will come when we sing of Christ and our testimonies. Random quote that I love: "Virginity is dignity, not a lack of opportunity" ~our guide's son

2nd Sabbath

Sorry I haven't posted very much. But today, my second Sabbath I had the best spiritual experience so far. It wasn't much but it meant a lot to me. I learned to always look Heavenward. I know that I have a Heavenly Father that loves me and knows me. He has helped me get through so much and I am so grateful to Him. A group of us watched Reflections of Christ which is a great movie and the photographs were so moving. This is where I got my inspiration for this poem. The photo here is Mark Maybry's.

Eyes Cast Heavenward

There, on the cross is where you hung.

The two beside you faced the ground: defeated.

Eyes lost in despair the hope gone.

Lord where were your eyes?

They were skyward, to your Father.

Never faltering but dying on the cross.

On the cross for your brothers, your sisters,

For me, for your family.

You, died triumphant.

You died that man might be.

That we all could be.

Lord you are hope.

Paving the road we all walk.

At the end of the road you will be there waiting.

Waiting to embrace me and say,

"Job well done. Come and live with me forever more."

This road that I struggle to follow is not the one beneath my eyes

But the one that is skyward.

With thee as my focus

My eyes will forever more be cast heavenward.

Day 4: My First Sabbath

Today was my fist Sabbath in the Holy Land and the highlight of today was after church when a group of us went up to Orson Hyde Park. We ended up talking to some kids with broken English outside the center that were playing soccer. It changed my view of the people here. Just being able to relate to these kids by saying Barcelona, Manchester or Ronaldo. Then later at the park hearing all the different sounds from the city is what inspired this poem if you can call it that.

The Unseen Smile

Noises all around: Call to Prayer, recited scripture,

Voices that sound like horns, bells clanging

Everything so foreign,

So many clashes of cultures.

But, yet I feel peace in the stillness within.

Muslims, Christians, Jews worshiping here.

Paying tribute to their God.

With all I find thee, Lord.

You reside in all that is good.

In truths in every belief,

In eyes of the children,

In people’s faith.

Coming here with biases,

Fearing those whose belief unknown to me.

Thank you Lord for helping me find the love you

Have for them, for showing me the light in their Smiles.