Anticipation

We're now closer to Santiago than to St. John. For days we've walked the Camino full of hope and anticipation of our arrival to Santiago Deco Costello. We know that something good in better awaits us. We do not just hope for good feelings, but an earthly experience with friends and our Camino family. Good food, good drink, laughter, rest, and care for our souls as well. It's an earthy experience. We anticipate with our whole beings, not only our mind and spirit. What I love about the good news of Jesus Christ is that his coming kingdom, the better city, is an earthy one. It is not a disembodied experience on clouds disassociated from our earthly existence. Instead, it promises an earthly existence filled with justice for the poor and an end to sickness, pain, and suffering. As Christians, we eagerly await his return and the establishment of his kingdom on earth where justice, kindness, and goodness will prevail for all. In many ways, all the great things about humanity that we have come to know on the Camino will be the pattern of what is to come. And so as you anticipate your arrival in Santiago, also meditate on the greatness of the kingdom to come. Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. May we live with faith and love, anticipating the day when all is made new. Come Lord Jesus and bring your kingdom near. Amen.