In Capernaum next to the Sea of Galilee, there is a beautiful garden tended by sweet nuns and monks. Showcasing beautifully carved stones and winding walkways, the place is just filled with flowers. Traditionally it is said that Peter had a home here, his name and Christian writings were etched in the dark walls of a dwelling close by. I simply knew it as the place where Jesus walked and taught and opened the Word in the Synagogue to Isaiah and spoke out loud the miraculous reasons for why he came to us...

“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon Me,
Because the LORD has anointed Me
To preach good tidings to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives,
And the opening of the prison to those who are bound"

After spending a great deal of time at the stone house today, I came across these pictures tonight of that trip and I am amazed at how beautifully similar the stone is in both of these places. The one that housed the ancient synagogue, it is so light (unlike Peter's dwelling next door that is so dark), it is cut stone and put together with chalky mortar. When we visited this place, pilgrims from all over the world were sitting around the outer edges, playing guitar, reading, visiting. Not unlike our stone house when groups come to stay.

I love it.

I love that God gives simple gifts of divine connections and focused remembering.

I love that similarities bring me comfort and make me grin.

I love that He gives the best gifts...He brings me back to Him. Bringing love to my emptiness, healing my broken and troubled heart, and setting spirit free...I am free.

Draw me in to you Jesus...Help me see you in the stone, in the garden, in the quiet grass...

I love you.