Oct 19, 2007

Daniel Murdock
Fat Friday

Although there are normally a large number of individuals doing last minute studying for quizzes in Old Testament and Ancient Near Eastern Studies, today this group seemed to have grown substantially. Most of their studying entailed a discussion regarding what random information Brother Ludlow was going to have on the quiz. In class, the “bell” almost saved these students when Brother Ludlow’s lecture went over time. However, one student quickly asked whether the quiz was still going to happen today. It was at this moment that Heavenly Father was flooded with prayers. The quiz, due to time, went quickly, and surprisingly, several individuals had perfect scores.
Following classes I had the opportunity to go to Hebrew University with Holly, Erin, and Jenessa. We strolled over to the usual entrance to the University and found it locked. We kept on walking as we talked; however, each entrance that we passed was also closed. Jokingly, I vocally wondered if there was any way into Hebrew University; I even suggested that maybe the University was closed for the day. However, Holly ruled this possibility out because what university closes on the first day of the weekend. Not in the least bit surprised, when we finally got inside the university, we found it deserted. Closed. The only individuals we saw were security guards, and the resulting silence gave the building an eerie feeling. Consequently we headed down to West Jerusalem. We took a taxi and ate lunch at a new hip shopping avenue close to Jaffa gate. The food was excellent but overpriced (I cannot wait until I can order some food that contains both meat and cheese). While in West Jerusalem we also went to Ben Yehuda Street and bought some delicious chalah (Shabbat bread).
This evening everyone at the center had a wonderful time participating in the opening ceremonies of Sarah Johnson’s mission call. The excitement was palpable as Sarah read the letter from Salt Lake and announced that she would be serving in the Paris, France mission. I was so happy for her, and I hope that she has a wonderful time.
Since coming to the Jerusalem Center I have been impressed by the support and encouragement that my peers give to each other. For example, when at Mt. Sinai, a small group helped Shannon hike to the summit and back down. Likewise, on the way back home from Micha’s caves, everyone had the opportunity to go in some smaller caves that required crawling. I am extremely claustrophobic, and when I looked at the route into the caves, I panicked. However, through the encouragement of others, like Amy Hill, I worked up my courage and pressed forward. It was nice to have won a battle against my fear, and I am grateful for the encouragement of my friends and peers.