We can meditate on Psalm 121, which speaks of the mountains in the Holy Land. We can lift our eyes to the mountains where the Psalmist writes that one can connect to Our God, the Maker of Heaven and Earth. In the mountains of Galilee, Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Jerusalem, Our God walked as human flesh. While looking towards the mountains of the Holy Land, we cry for the help of the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for these same mountains bear restrictions, checkpoints, and detours. Our Holy Land now stands as a place that is sacred ground, yet also marked by a sacrificial experience. May the faithful turn our hearts towards Our God this Lenten season, because help does not come from human power, but from God who made heaven and earth. Look with mercy on the families in Palestine, whose coming and going is burdened by the delays, denials, and painful separation from their families and holy sites. Preserve their lives, guard their steps, and sustain them with steadfast love. As Holy Easter approaches, let us remember that Your Son led us from the despair of the tomb into the light of His Holy Resurrection. God alone is our refuge and deliverance. Amen. 

Psalm 121