2 Corinthians 5:1-5
One summer I walked 500 miles across Spain. Each day the landscape varied: rolling hills, mountains, city streets, small towns, poppy fields, vineyards. My destination was the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela that houses the relics of the apostle James.
I walked to pray and to think. I walked to connect to the earth. I walked to connect with God. Every step I took was an act of faith, a step forward in learning about Christ, who is the way, the life, and the truth. Every time I put one foot in front of the other, I prayed that the Spirit would be with me and would guide me on my way.
Every day brought its own challenges, whether that was a sore knee, some blisters, fatigue, loneliness, or uncertainty. Yet, I continued to walk, trusting that the way would provide. My fellow pilgrims strengthened me. The prayers of those at home reminded me that I was not alone. My own prayers overflowed to give me peace.
Walking the pilgrimage route for a month reminded me that I can live my life in the day-to-day in much the same way I did when walking those 500 miles. I can trust in the truth that I don’t walk alone. I can believe in Christ as the way in life, death, and resurrection. Jesus walked this earth knowing that this very ground beneath his sandals was the one his followers would walk.
As we face trials, setbacks, and pain in this world, God provides the assurance that we are not alone in our suffering. God walks with us. Christ bears our pain and brings us to new life.
Consider
What pain are you experiencing in your life right now? Who is walking with you to bring you comfort?
Pray
God of all, walk with me this day and every day. Amen.