I am about to set off on the Camino.
The sensation of beginning the journey has swept over me. All beginnings are marked with both trepidation and embrace yearning. It is that way when we begin our earthly journey. You start with the best of intentions. But you never really know what you might encounter on the road. We all hope for a good journey but that journey for some of us ends early through illness or death. What is sure is on the journey I will encounter obstacles, disappointments, sorrows. It is best to be prepared to face the worst on the journey. Hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.
No one really knows how each journey will unfold. You begin with a prayer and an intention in your heart. This is my prayer as I set out for the Camino:
Oh Lord,
Be with me as I walk
Guide me through unknown twists and trails
If I should trip send your angels to catch me
If I should expire before I reach my destination, hold me in Your bosom and bear me up to your heavenly abode.
May I never forget that it is You who put me on this path
Lead me on towards the path of righteousness
Let me never forget that all is sent down from You
Assuage my thirst should I find no water in the heat of the afternoon.
Should I find no sanctuary during the darkness, balm my soul from the terrors of the night.
If I get lost in the dark woods of my own making, send a trail of crumbs to lead me out
If I should meet devils and evil beasts along the way, defend me with thy brilliant light.
Lord bless my feet on the path.
For all paths lead back to You.
My Lord God and Savior be with me on this journey.
If I walk with You all paths I pass are blessed.
Lord Jesus be with me as I way the Way.
Show me the Way I should walk Oh Lord for I have lifted up my soul to Thee.
