The Shepherd's Fields in Bethleham

Mike Houghtaling, our birthday boy today, read from the Gospel of Luke the account of the angels visiting the shepherds. When I first suggested he read the gospel because we were at a quiet spot, he balked saying he wanted to do it in a more authentic spot. Once I realized that we were on the edge of the Judean Desert, but the grass was lush and green and drip irrigation pipes were running everywhere I started to understand. We ventured closer to the actual fields and he read the account.

He then shared a reflection with us on how the fields in Israel are not like what we think of as a pasture in the US. The fields are mainly rocks with sparse vegetation in between. The shepherd doesn't herd the flock, but leads it along well worn paths in the fields. Much how Jesus lights the way along the path of righteousness.

We are pretty tired and going to hit the hay early. We have mass at 6am in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the we are going to tour the tunnel along the Western Wall, and then walk back to the hotel for breakfast. What a start to the day.

Thanks to all who are praying for us. We are raising you up in our prayers and everything is going well.