Hike the mile you are in…what’s an extra 1.7 miles?

I didn’t plan on writing while on El Camino, but day one has proven to be too much not to share. Seven days ago I could barely move. I could not sit or stand for long and I constantly had to stretch and adjust to make it through the day. My walk was more of a shuffle since my stride caused immediate spasms across my lower back. That was seven days ago. Today, today I just finished my first day on El Camino that was scheduled for 14 miles and ended at 15.7 miles thanks to a little detour (I got lost looking for the place we are staying tonight). I came to Spain knowing that I would be lucky to walk a mile, maybe two. I would be in that moment and then grab a transport to meet my group at our next bed down location. I never imagined I could have a day like today. It seems fitting to pull a verse from James since I am on El Camino where St. James walked. “And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up” (James 5:15, NIV). Praise- He has indeed answered prayers and made this sick person well. Well enough that I could not only make it to this pilgrimage but experience it to its fullest. For that, I am grateful.

This morning started early and with an almost immediate Godwink. I previously shared at discovering the Jerusalem Rose, or resurrection plant. I remember seeing it for the first time and being so moved by something that one might see as dead and worthless coming back to life. The analogy of rebirth with the living water cannot be ignored. Out of the blue, I decided to share that story with our trip guide who is also a previous pastor. When I finished telling her the story, she looked at me and said she felt like this was an answer to a prayer. She is working on a book project and had been stuck on translating real experience to written word on the topic of resurrection. She said she prayed about it fervently the day before. And today, a topic I haven’t thought about in months came in mind to share- now that’s a Godwink! Do you see why I could not wait to write? Miraculous healing, Godwinks, and even more amazing encounters with fellow pilgrims. I am already beyond fulfilled and it is only day one.

Rob sent me a text last night before I went to sleep and his simple words stayed with me all day today- just be in the moment. That is all any of us can do. We never know when healing may come or opportunities come open, but we can commit to being ready and present when they do.

Today, I pray that you go be in the moment- whatever that moment may be for you. Maybe it’s waking up early to see the sunrise or starting a conversation with a random stranger to learn of their journey to your shared path. Go be in that moment.

I pray my words spoke to you, please share with a friend. Don’t miss a blog post, subscribe to my we page.