Some Random Jerusalem

I saw my second full rainbow arching across Jerusalem today. Now, back in Ohio, it’s something special to just get ¼ of a rainbow. I’d never seen a real full rainbow, therefore, until I saw my first Israel rainbow, which was from horizon to horizon. It was absolutely beautiful, and filled the sky over the city with magnificent color. I was reminded, as I always am when I see rainbows, of Genesis 9:16, where God establishes the rainbow as a sign of his promise never to flood the earth again. The rainbow seemed strangely appropriate here in Israel.

I’ve taken up drinking Turkish coffee. It’s by far the most potent coffee I’ve ever had, since it’s made by mixing the coffee grounds right in with the water. When you get to the bottom of the cup, there’s plenty of grounds-goodness to slurp, depending on how much energy you need. The second time I bought a cup from the school’s coffee/deli place, I requested cream in it (the first time I thought it was entirely too strong without it). The Israeli guys behind the counter just looked at me and laughed, and let me know that no one drinks their Turkish coffee with cream in it. Since then, they poked fun at me when I go to buy my coffee.

Israelis always wait for the walk sign to light up when they cross the street, even when there is no traffic coming in either direction. I suspect it’s the result of a few thousand years of following God’s law, which naturally leads to a respect for man’s law as well. It’s certainly different from DC, though, where people try to cross fast-moving traffic. It’s not the same here, though, because cars in traffic just don’t stop. There is no pedestrian right-of-way, and if you get hit by a car I suspect it’s your own fault. The drivers here are crazy.

We’re making plans to go to Petra- the ancient city in Jordan carved out of rocks- two weeks from now. I’m incredibly excited. Plus, Mom and Stephanie are coming to visit at the end of March. They’re in for quite an adventure- the Israeli elections will take place when they’re here.

Well, I’d better be going. Have a great weekend, all.