Onward and Upward

Hey friends,

We've been mixing it up on the trail for the past couple of weeks in Israel and Jordan. If we're able to download some pictures, you should be seeing us to your left or right or possibly above or below this entry. (Reminds me of the Brady Bunch intro) If it's a white out, I'll do my best to paint some pictures for you with words and photos will arrive later. Dave and I typically cross the Jordanian/Israeli border by car. This has always been a pleasant drive through small towns accompanied by lofty mountain views. Our drive to Israel was uneventful but the taxi ride from the border back to Amman had a whole different flavor. It was a hot, windows down, hair blown across my face, sticking to my seat ride. You might say it was hair raising even before it got hair raising because Dave's quick and observant interjection got our driver's attention an instant before he rear ended a car engaged in an unexpected turn. Not uncommon over here but this near collision really burnt some rubber. We readjusted ourselves and our backseat belongings and continued on our familiar way until we were the ones making an unexpected turn. We found ourselves traveling up a narrow mountain road that all but disappeared at times. We crept across tight bridges and over deep ravines as we witnessed most of what I call civilization, disappear further and further below us. Dave glanced at me at one point and whispered, "This is interesting." I was feeling the same way only more so.

This is when my lively imagination and the taxi both kicked into overdrive. For the next six hours (actually 45 minutes) I rehearsed everything I'd ever read or been taught regarding hostage situations. All of a sudden the back of our driver's head looked 'wanted'. Somewhere between thinking about the ridiculous shoes I was wearing (totally unacceptable for trekking blindfolded), what snacks were in my purse (two packs of gum, a bottle of water and wishful thinking) and what negotiations styles work best with limited Arabic, we pulled back onto a more familiar route and the crisis situation in my mind was resolved. When we arrived at the hotel in Amman, the driver hardily shook Dave's hand and said, "Good driver, yes?" I thought yes, bravo, we averted a deadly collision and you proved not to be a terrorist. I give you high marks for being a navigational enigma. I felt so silly but I guess even well worn travelers can give themselves goose bumps.

The remainder of our time in Jordan and the preceding time in Israel was filled with only the best kind of goose bumps....the God kind. The kibbutz where we stayed didn't have any cows to milk or eggs to gather...at least by us. It was a wonderful setting for renewal and refreshment. Out of our time there, I would ask you to remember a young family with small children who routinely hear mortar fire and explosions where they are located. It is a frequent and daily occurrence. Dave and I spent some blessed time with this mom and dad. They're living in one interesting neighborhood. Many of their national neighbors are surprised that they have stayed. Ask that they and their children would experience grace, peace and protection. Ask for wisdom as they make decisions regarding their family and work. Ask that their sleep would be restful.

Our stay was brief at this lovely site outside Jerusalem but so welcomed by all. We did manage to have a baby shower in a bunker/bomb shelter/panic room of sorts. It was the only location on site that would hold all the ladies. It was decorated and filled with fellowship, sweet things and laughter. Now, how many babies have a bunker theme at their shower? When we returned to Jordan we were able to spend time with several friends before heading back to the Gulf, (Our pilot informed us the early evening temperature was 111 degrees.) We were also able to welcome a new couple to Jordan who have come to join us in providing member care. Wow, are we glad to have them on board. Remember them as they transition into this new role. As I write, we're readying to fly out tomorrow for a conference in Florida. We're hoping to partner with a large host of others who also look beyond borders to join the father in what he is doing. Dave and I will be leading a workshop, so ask that it would convey the needs we see and how others can help. Only the father can stir and call hearts and we're trusting him to do that. Well, we're throwing some fresh cloths in our suitcases and we're off again. We'll fly back to the Gulf in about ten days for a quick three day turn around and then guess what? We're off again. I'm almost convinced that we don't need a home, we need a parking space. Love and thanks for your directed thoughts towards us and others, Sara for Dave too