The Land of Trial

The moment we entered Israel, we were told that this would be the most rewarding, yet hardest, semester of our lives. Israel is truly a land of trial. From the beginning of its birth as a nation, Israel has encountered trial upon trial. Enemies surround it on all sides, and the climate of the nation is such that they must depend on God for their livelihood and daily water needs. Studying its history, one cannot help but feel the vulnerability of the land.

Yesterday, we got a small taste of the land of Israel. We toured Jerusalem in the pouring rain, sopping wet and freezing cold, learning the history of the nation. It was an ironic experience to say the least! Though i can't remember much... (your brain only works so much when you're freezing wet =), the lessons i did learn were so worth it!

We visited the site of the Last Supper and meditated on the lessons that Jesus taught his disciples before being betrayed. Before the lessons, John establishes his deity by saying "He had come from God, and He was going to God" (Jn 13:3). God in flesh is here on earth! What would one expect from such an opening? Not what comes next, that is sure. Jesus acts like a servant, and washes His disciples feet. Ultimate deity displaying ultimate humility. The first lesson? We are not greater than He, and should follow His example in all things.

The second lesson is this: I am coming again. "I go to prepare a place for you... I will come again and receive you unto Myself: that where I am, you may also be" (Jn 14:3). There is hope in the Lord, for He will come again to bring us to Himself!

But do not fear, for He has not left us alone, but promised His Spirit to guide us in all truth, and abide with us forever. What a beautiful promise! He will never leave us alone, but has given us a Helper through the midst of the trials of this world... trials that are destined to come.

For that is the last lesson. Persecution is coming and it is inevitable. "You are not of this world, because I chose you out of this world, therefore the world hates you" (Jn 15:19). But through it all, He gives us peace. "My peace I give to you.. let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid" (Jn 15:27). So what have I concluded through it all?

Bringing glory to His name is more important than anything. The way to do that is through humility, trusting in God through trials, knowing that the testing produces patience and a deeper seated confidence in the faith upon which I rest. So even though my laptop is completely black when turned on and only blinks the caps lock light, I praise God for bringing me to the Land of Trial. (Though prayers for it to work again would be helpful as well!). May God be glorified, now and forevermore, through my life and yours!