I had the incredible opportunity to travel to the West Bank this previous summer with some dear friends. I took this picture as we walked along the border of Israel and the West Bank. Israel has constructed a large 'barrier' that separates the West Bank from the state of Israel. On the Palestinian side of the wall, tons of graffiti litters the concrete monolith. I was particularly struck by this graffiti. I distinctly remember pausing for several minutes, not just to take pictures but to simply reflect on the moment.

DARKNESS CANNOT DRIVE OUT DARKNESS
ONLY LIGHT CAN DO THAT
HATE CANNOT DRIVE OUT HATE
ONLY LOVE CAN DO THAT

What powerful words in perspective to the political situation and conflict going on in Israel/Palestine, and not only there, but here--and in my own soul.

In whatever we do, we should be reminded that hate cannot turn back the powers of hate. Darkness cannot expunge itself. Only light can turn darkness into light, and only love can bring us out of a steeped hatred of ourselves, our world, our neighbor, and God back to himself and ourself.

Lord bring me back to you. Bring back to myself. Bring me back to my friends and family. And bring me back to the Earth you created.

Wesley