Where Jesus Prayed: Illuminating the Lords Prayer in the Holy Land

When Danielle Shroyer went on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, she had one goal: to enjoy God, fully present to the presence of the Holy. Tired of her own wordy prayers and theological thoughts as a pastor, she wanted her prayers to be quiet listening rather than incessant speaking. When the Lord’s Prayer came to mind in the midst of her silence, she welcomed the words of Jesus as the only words she needed. Thus began a rhythm that lasted for two weeks of pilgrimage, as she traveled, praying only the words Jesus taught. Immersed in a sense of place, she felt the prayer coming to life in new and unexpected ways. The Lord’s Prayer has remained with us for two thousand years for many reasons. Here it returns to its place of origin, carried deep in the heart of a pilgrim traveler as she walks where Jesus walked and discovers within its words the depth, beauty and truth of the One who prayed them first. “For a while, my prayer was only breath, rhythmic and slow. Then, after a while, it seemed only fitting to pray the Lord’s Prayer—nothing more, nothing less. Just Jesus’s words of hope for this world and for these his children. Our Father, who art in heaven. . . .” —from the Introduction