Jerusalem

Israel, or Palestine depending on your politics, is one of the world's oldest travel destinations. Everyone from Moses to Mark Twain has dreamed of going there. The appearance of prophets seems to be dwindling and the Crusaders have long since hung up their swords and shields, but travellers still come in droves, almost magnetically, to this land still considered holy by countless millions. (www.lonelyplanet.com/israel-and-the-palestinian-territories)

Yes, many people has dreamed of going there. I did once. In fact, I even been thinking about going there this year. Been thinking of celebrating Easter in Jerusalem, the three of us: Bapak, Mama, and me (well, would like to take my sister and two brothers along but it would surely cost me a fortune). Last year, been talking about it to Bapak and he has prepared himself very well, with making a proper NPWP card and managing to own a decent map of the city (I found one in his drawer).

And yes, like Moses, Bapak had only been able to look at the city from a distance. Never would he step his foot on the city, never would he be able to offer his prayers at the holy temple. But I believe, I do believe, that he will get in the New Jerusalem with his beloved Jesus (and may I join them there: my beloved Bapak and my beloved Jesus).

Minutes before Bapak's gone, he sang this song along with my brother and Mama:
Oh Yerusalem kota mulia, Hatiku rindu kesana
Oh Yerusalem kota mulia, Hatiku kurindu kesana
Tak lama lagi Tuhanku datanglah, Bawa saya masuk sana
Tak lama lagi Tuhanku datanglah, Bawa saya masuk sana

Oh yes, I believe, that my dear Lord is taking Bapak to the New Jerusalem.