Author: Dave Dishman (Page 200 of 474)

As you travel the final segments of the Camino de Santiago you enter a Lord of the Rings forest. Massive trees surround you, covered with moss and shielding the undergrowth from the sun. There you walk an ancient path carved over a thousand years.

Pilgrims trudge along, farmers drive their cattle back and forth to fields, and rains erode the path. The faithful carry mud on their boots to points around the globe. All the while, the path sinks.

The way of Jesus deepens much like this trail. In some parts of the world the faith appears tenuous, while in others it expands and strengthens. But year after year the work of the Lord changes the ground upon which we move—even if we fail to notice.

The psalmist prayed, you make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand (Psalm 16:11).

In the forests on the path to Santiago the Lord’s presence more often feels real. Here lies a thin place between the heavenly and earthly realms. The Lord works quietly, eroding our misconceptions and faithlessness, helping us turn toward him and follow.

Sometimes it helps to get into a quiet forest, along a path etched into the earth by millions of fellow seekers, to hear a hint of his whisper.

Camino de Santiago 2023

Picture taken by me this past week, close to Santiago de Compostela

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set out for us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfector of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:1-2).

At the end of the Camino de Santiago everyone celebrates. Pilgrims cheer and greet each other at the cathedral, the final point of the journey. One sees joy, laughter and even tears in the crowd. But this happiness pales in light of a future celebration when we unite with Christ and His Church. Here’s how I describe the scene in my book, Seers, Sayers, Schemers, & Saints:

As you consider your journey of faith, who are your fellow pilgrims? Who walks beside you in meaningful ways? Who shouts from your great cloud of witnesses, cheering you on as you finish your race?

Take some time to reflect on those who’ve walked the path of faith with you. Thank the Lord for such good people in your life. Finally, pray for those within your sphere of influence—whose crowd are you joining?

Who will you help across the finish line?

Camino de Santiago 2023

Photo by Nicholas Green

They who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint (Isaiah 40: 31).

By the end of a week on the Camino de Santiago I’m tired.

I’ve walked 10-15 miles every day. Through the morning I limber up, but my knees and hips feel the distance in the evening. I look forward to the close of each day’s stretch when I kick off my shoes and take refreshment. I renew my strength in order to walk the next day.

Life often discourages us, like a long trail to a false summit. I need renewal, and in the Lord resides strength beyond myself, a super-natural lifting. But I must wait and trust. Even if I don’t necessarily feel the strength coming, I take to the trail.

Within the Lord I can walk without fail. I can run and perhaps even fly. The Lord’s strength, infused through the Holy Spirit, pushes me to lengths I failed to believe possible when I started down the long journey of life.

Camino de Santiago 2023

Photo by Robin Ooode

Become wise by walking with the wise; hang out with fools and watch your life fall to pieces (Proverbs 13:20).

Who you walk with makes all the difference.

On the Camino de Santiago I walk with different companions every day. Some in our group I’ve known for years, and I have also met pilgrims new to me along the trail. I discover wisdom among old friends and find wisdom among the new folk if I spend enough time with them.

Wisdom shows in all shapes and looks. Often wisdom grows among those who’ve lived the longest. Give me experience and the scars of life in a leader.

One of the foolish notions of our cultural moment enshrines wisdom among the young. A popular singer once crooned: I believe that children are the future, teach them well and let them lead the way. What foolishness—pity a people ruled by capricious children. It pays to avoid fools (remember bad company corrupts good morals).

Instead, walk among wise people if you really want to get ahead in life. It’s a primary step toward a future fulfilled and contented in the Lord.

Camino de Santiago 2023

Photo: gentleman in a village along the Camino