Tuesday November 27, 2007

Shannon White
Journal Entry for 11/27/07
Religion 311


Today was our first day of classes at Ein Gev, as we had a field trip for our first full day. We finished up the book of Mark, and had a wonderful discussion about severing the hand, the foot, and the eye. We talked about how we should severe or cut off those who are bringing us down and impeding our eternal progression. Then we began the book of Luke. Luke was a physician in the upper class of society. He was a traveling companion to Paul, and thus received insights from Paul. We then discussed the Christmas story. We talked about how there were three annunciations by the angel Gabriel, which were to Zacharias, Mary, and Joseph. Then we discussed the Psalms or songs present in the story. They are Mary’s song the ‘Magnificant’ and Zecharias’s song the ‘Benedictus’. Both are songs of praise and both emphasize the importance of fearing the Lord and serving Him. Another part of the lecture was about the importance of fasting, and the things we can do to make our fasts more meaningful. The steps in the process include: planning in advance for the fast; fasting with a purpose; beginning the fast with a prayer; abstaining from food and drink for two consecutive meals; spiritually maintaining a proper attitude and spirit throughout the fast; studying, attending meetings; paying a generous fast offering; pondering; and concluding the fast with a prayer. Brother Ludlow challenged us to follow these steps, and promised us that if we did them with full purpose of heart our fast could be a time of rejoicing. The lesson was concluded with a discussion of the story of the widow of Nain, the calling of the seventy, and the story of the Good Samaritan. I felt I learned so much in this lesson.
At the end of class many of us rushed outside to try to get in an hour nap on the “hammocks” before lunch. Those unable to get hammocks resorted to chairs and studying. After lunch it was back outside to lounge and do homework. I personally spent the time right next to the Sea of Galilee studying the scriptures and enjoying the wonderful, peaceful environment. Pretty much people studied and played outside all day. The sunset was absolutely amazing! The sun shining out over the water and the rainbow colors emanating throught the clouds made for a breathtaking view! In the evening after dinner we had a bonfire and just enjoyed talking and associating with each other. The environment in the Galilee is so peaceful and relaxed. This is truly my favorite place to be.