Harvesting Peace (and Merlot)

The Mount of Olives in Jerusalem has witnessed many battles in its history. The western slope of the hill was where the Romans camped out in 70 CE as they waited to capture Jerusalem; nearly 1900 years later, it became a key battlefield as Jordanian and Israeli armies fought to establish their border. But today, it's the home of the Lutheran World Federation's ministries and other faith-based organizations. During the summer, it's also where we play volleyball and enjoy church potlucks. How does a battlefield transform into a backyard, with olive trees, grape vines, and a volleyball court?
A lot of healing work, according to Mark Brown, LWF's representative in Jerusalem. The most visible symbol of healing is the Augusta Victoria hospital, providing care that Palestinians cannot receive anywhere else. Another is the grape harvest Tim and I participated in Friday morning. In cooperation with a local Trappist monastery, we grow Merlot grapes here, and harvest them with the help of volunteers. Yum!
At the monastery's winery, where we delivered the grapes, I discovered a beautiful garden path near the church, and this sign (above). Another arrow to follow... the way of peace.