I’m back from an incredible trip to Israel and somewhat recovered from jet lag. Actually, some effects of jet lag are good. I’m waking up earlier and getting more work done. Not a bad thing…so far.
A few things I wanted to comment on:
- I posted the last of my pictures from Israel in a Flick’r collection. You can see them HERE. I may post a small, “best of” series if I get around to it.
- Being in Israel during the bin Laden episode was interesting to say the least. The response varied along political lines as you would expect. Our Israeli guide greeted us that morning with “God Bless America”. Many in Israel were measured in their response, happy that a terrorist had met his demise, but conflicted over rejoicing in death. One response from a Rabbi in the Jerusalem Journal was of particular interest: “This is a time to say ‘mazal tov.’ It’s a time of great jubilation,” Hier said, noting God’s sense of humor in bin Laden’s death occurring on the same date that Hitler’s death was announced in 1945. Some Palestinian groups were somewhat supportive, while others, such as Hamas condemned the killing and mourned him as an “Arab holy warrior”. It was a bit tense, but we never felt threatened. I’m extremely grateful for the bravery of our troops and pray that this somehow helps turn a corner in our war against terror.
- After being there, I think I will be more diligent about praying for the peace of Israel.
- It’s great to be back in Carolina. God practiced on Israel, but got it right when he created Charleston
- I met a presidential candidate in church yesterday. Is it that time already?
- Speaking of presidential candidates: We’re starting a new study next weekend on the life of David, and I’ll be talking about “How to Choose a King” (or a president, or a spouse, or a business partner, or a friend). If a grizzled old veteran like Samuel almost got it wrong, I’m pretty sure people like you and I can learn something from his experience.
That’s all for now,
Shalom
Would you ever consider a Q&A session at Long Point about your trip to Isreal?
Comment by Gretchen — May 9, 2011 @ 12:57 pm
Even simpler, there is only 1 letter difference between Osama, Obama, and Omama! LOL!
Comment by Jim Miller — May 9, 2011 @ 2:44 pm
Boca tov Greg, What a grand idea, to take a group of Seacoasters to Israel next year. Having already been a visitor, I’ll leave my space open for another interested traveler.Yep, it seems that the elections will be looming large in the next months, and I was pleased to see Tim Scott among the worshippers last Sunday, along with a future candidate.I too, would enjoy hearing about your trip to Israel, would you consider speaking to us other than on the weekend. Have a blessed day to all.
Comment by Diana Warren — May 11, 2011 @ 9:56 am
Three words: Seacoast-Israel Campus
Comment by Roger "Super Rog" Redford — May 19, 2011 @ 12:53 am
It was an honor having all you seacoasters here. Made good friends, and was educated and moved by so many things
We Jews pray “L’Shana Ha Ba a , Be Yerushalyim” which means “Next year in Jerusalem”. and maybe (just maybe!), we’ll see each other next year in Charleston….
Shalom Y’all!
Comment by Ilan — May 6, 2012 @ 6:14 am