October 28, 2007

Shannon White

Class Journal Entry—In the JC

For October 28, 2007

The day started early for many people, as many arose to do some last minute studying for our MNE 347 quiz that day. For three of us the day started at around 3:30 AM. Annie Schmidt, Ryan Taylor, and I got up early to watch the World Series game between the Colorado Rockies and the Boston Red Sox while we studied. The outcome of the game was disappointing, but we had some beneficial study time. After breakfast, we studied for both our Old Testament quiz and our MNE 347 quiz until the start of Old Testament. In Old Testament we discussed the Persian occupation and the rebuilding of the temple. We also discussed the story of Hosea, and how the story is symbolic of the relationship between God and Israel. At the end of class we took our quiz, which many in the class deemed to be pretty difficult. Those in the Arabic had an extra two hours after Old Testament to study for 347, while those in the Hebrew class were studying for their Hebrew quiz. Last minute studying continued up until 347 class at 10:30. The two hour class went by pretty quickly, with a large amount of time left at the end to take our quiz.

There was a great deal of relief after the 347 quiz, and many were anxious to relax and spend some time in the city. I went with Meg, Katie, and Danny to Aladdin's and then into the Old City to do some shopping. We explored some parts of the city I've never been before and had an enjoyable time interacting and exploring. Talking to other groups, I found out many went to change money and then did some shopping in preparation for Jordan. That night was spent relaxing, watching movies, and packing for our trip to Jordan the next day.

The highlight of my Old Testament study was our hike to and devotional on Mount Sinai. As I struggled to make it to the top of Sinai, I felt the love of my Heavenly Father and Savior through the help and support of others. Though I am sure most people in my group could have made it up a lot sooner, they stayed with me to the very end. This meant so much to me and I truly felt the love and support of my classmates. Being at the top of Mount Sinai was an exhilarating and very spiritual experience. The sunrise was gorgeous, and I felt such deep gratitude to my Heavenly Father for His hand in helping me up the mountain so I could witness such a wonderful sight. The devotional experience atop the mountain truly strengthened my testimony. Brother Ludlow made a statement during devotional that really impacted me. He said that he thought Moses would have been pleased seeing us up at the top of Mount Sinai having this wonderful experience. This experience was wonderful, and I know it will be a strength to me for the rest of my life.