Canaan in the Desert

By Amber Hunter Jesse

 I’d like to share with you a truly special place where all are welcome, sunrise to sunset.

I wonder, have you heard of this treasure that’s hidden in our city?
Its name is Canaan in the Desert, and I personally think it’s one of Arizona's best kept secrets.

I once wrote a song that says, “I’m a tortured soul and I don’t rest easy.”
Jesus invites us in this way, "Come to me, all who are weary with heavy burdens and I will give you rest." This beautiful desert prayer garden has become for me a sacred space, a place where I can take a deep breath and find rest. 

It thrills my heart to share Canaan with you. I want you to know that it’s available for you too!

The sky is bright blue here this morning and perfectly clear. It's quiet, except for singing birds. The unique beauty of the desert is highlighted here. The beauty of God, even more so.

I’m often surprised that there aren’t more people flocking to this outdoor sanctuary. There have been times I've had this whole garden to myself! 

Do you need some quiet in your day? A place of peace? A place to rest and think? To pray? To experience beauty? Maybe even a place to grieve? 

Come to Canaan in the Desert. Really, Come!

There's so much I could tell you about this wonderful place. Here's a bit of history. 

Canaan began in Darmstadt, Germany. On September 11th, 1944, an air raid left their town in ruins, with over 12,000 dead. Two young women and their little Bible study group sensed an invitation from God to help bring healing and reconciliation in the midst of the horrors of war. They decided to live together in community, and with only $15 in their pockets, they began building with their own hands- a motherhouse,  a chapel and a garden for prayer.

Many miracles later, their passion for prayer, healing and reconciliation has spread to various places around the world, including right here in the middle of our desert city!

Sit and read under the olive trees. Walk along the pathways. Drink from the "Fountain of the Father's Goodness." Journey through the "Stations of the Cross." If you see one of the sisters, feel free to say hello! They are warm and hospitable. Christmas is an especially comforting time to visit Cannan in the Desert.  

Just below are are some photos I've snapped over the years.

Grace and peace to you,

Amber Jesse

http://canaaninthedesert.com/
https://www.kanaan.org/
9849 N 40 St.
Phoenix, AZ 85028
"We invite you to our Christmas Prayer
Daily Dec. 14 – Jan 1, at 3:00 pm
in Jesus’ Victory Chapel
Come and sing with us at the manger"