Reaching the geographic halfway point a few days ago was a notable point in the journey and it was neat to get a document marking the occasion. My camera is being weird and not focusing well closeup, so here’s the best photo I can manage to get.

After reaching Sahagun, the halfway city, I decided to take a taxi up to Leon, the next major city on the Camino and the last one until reaching the final goal of Santiago. I figured a couple of days rest for my feet and a good bit of extra time for prayer for my soul would be a great help as I make the final push to Santiago. My rest has been good and the cathedral here is quite edifying. Sadly, many of the churches and Cathedrals along the Camino have become more like museums - or are actual museums. Over and again I’ve seen ancient side altars have been removed, the altar crosses on the many altars consolidated to a decorative display, chalices put in cases never to be used again for the Holy Sacrifice, and the dwelling place of God turned into a history and architecture lesson. Thankfully the cathedral here in Leon has opened itself to visitors to show the beauty of its art and architecture but without separating them from the faith that is their foundation. Altars still intact, even if not currently in regular use, show the importance of faith at every turn. The hours spent there in Our Lord’s Eucharistic Presence have been a true joy.

Tomorrow I’ll hit the trail once again following the little shells and arrows that show the way. This is one of the more remarkable things about the Camino: that you can literally walk to the other side of the country only by following arrows and shell markers. I’ve reflected often on the way that these arrows are much like the voice of God. The arrows are always there, but the pilgrim must be attentive so as to see them. If I am caught up in myself and not attentive, I can (and have) easily gone astray. And the markers come in a whole variety of forms: metal shells in the ground, sign posts, concrete markers, spray paint on building or streets, and simple posts with a shell on them. Much the same can be said of the Lord who speaks continuously but requires attentiveness to hear and speaks in many and varied ways so that each of us might come to recognize his voice. As I continue on the Camino, recognizing the markers has become much easier. And as I continue to follow the Lord’s voice, I am increasingly able to know more what the Lord desires of me in the moment. Who knew that some yellow paint would cause me to think so frequently about the life of faith and prayer?!

As I hit the road tomorrow, I set my eyes on the goal: Santiago de Compostela. If all goes well, 12-13 days will find me walking into the plaza of the Church of St. James. I am excited at the prospect, but know that I still have some intense roads ahead. Thank you all for your prayers that keep my feet moving along the way. May the Good Lord reward you! My prayers are with you too.

St. James, pray for us!