The Journey Begins:

The way up to Zion is not smooth or even, but the Word says the heart consumed with a pilgrimage mindset will be filled with delight.

Even in the ashes, even in the suffering, I see hope and holy longing (in diverse hearts of the young and old) climbing to the dwelling place of God, just as the wisdom and strength of His light and the streams of His delight rain (and reign) down on us along this desert road.