How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity! ~Psalm 133:1
The Western Wall is sometimes called the Wailing Wall, but we pilgrims are cautioned to avoid this demeaning phrase.
At the Western Wall women are separated from men. I accept this because I must, although it takes an effort not to be angry at gender divisions. I try to be mindful that I am in a sacred place. I pray silently as I approach the ancient stones. When I spread my palm against the rough texture of the stones, I am overcome by tears that surprise me. Something in me is indeed wailing.
I glance at the woman praying beside me, a young mother with a baby, who seems distraught. Tears run down her face as she presses her baby’s palms against the stone.
Though I don’t know what her prayers might be, I echo them without words, laying them before the Almighty on behalf of this Jewish sister.
What unexpected person can you pray for today?
Prayer: O Spirit, I lift up the prayers of my unknown sisters and brothers.
This material is adapted from my book, Chasing the Divine in the Holy Land.
The photo is of the author at the Western Wall.
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