Thursday, June 28, 2007

Summertime

We all need time to recharge our batteries and to rekindle the spirit within us. Do you have plans to do so this summer?

In a few weeks Jan and I will be traveling to the Northern coast of Spain where we’ll be journeying to cities and outposts along what is known as the “Camino de Santiago.” Since the Middle Ages religious pilgrims have traveled across Spain from several points, including a few along the French-Spanish border to the town of Santiago de Compostela where the Cathedral is said to have the bones of the disciple James in its relicry. During the past few years more than 100,000 people have made this journey each summer on foot, bicycle, horseback, and car. On foot, this journey typically takes 2 ½ to 3 months.

We will be traveling by car, stopping at monasteries, visiting churches, and enjoying the scenery along the Spanish coast and throughout its’ mountainous countryside. Jan and I will be taking lots of pictures and I’ll be posting some of them on my personal blog (you can find it at http://embeal.blogspot.com). Please feel free to join us via the internet as we complete our summer pilgrimage.

You don’t have to leave home to find spiritual renewal, of course. Perhaps you get recharged reading, writing, spending time alone, or working with others. Whatever works for you ought to be made central to your daily activities. As one whose public role (pastor) requires a constant outward flow of energy on behalf of others—in prayer, counseling, and worship—I know the pain and hunger that emerges as our battery cells approach empty. Sometimes I am able to increase my energy with simple things.

But whether it is a journey afar or a trip within, you should do what you can to find refreshment and renewal as often as possible. Summer time provides many opportunities for a wide array of recharging experiences. At most work locations, the pace slows as the weather improves. On the occasional rainy day, there is nothing wrong with curling on the couch with a good book. Grab chances as you can to find a peace within so that you are able to work for peace without.