In our end is our beginning

October 14, 2022

The image that got my tears flowing happened about 5 Km before we reached the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

Emerging from a parking lot were dozens of people on bikes entering the Camino. It was immediately apparent that this was something special, an organization for persons with a variety of disabilities assisted by able persons. Men, women, children, some on recliner bikes heading off down the hill together.

One man with significant disabilities was struggling to get started. Two men on bikes pedaled to either side, grasped the handle bars and took off on what I imagined was both a frightening and joyful ride, perhaps the best ride ever.

The pure love, the teamwork of the three on their way to a common goal made me wonder if this is like our final journey from this life to life eternal might be like; human frailty and grace intertwined.

It was also a glimpse of heaven on earth. While bombs were exploding in the Ukraine and hurricane survivors were putting the pieces of life back together in Florida, love and grace were still present.

I was reminded of the lyrics in a Hymn of Hope: “In our end is our beginning, in our time eternity time” (see lyrics below). It’s an apt description of the pilgrim’s journey through life. ~ Anne

A Hymn of Hope: butterflies will soon be free! In the bulb there is a flower; in the seed, an apple tree; in cocoons, a hidden promise: In the cold and snow of winter there’s a spring that waits to be, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. There’s a dawn in every darkness.

There’s a song in every silence, seeking word and melody; bringing hope to you and me.something God alone can see. From the past will come the future; what it holds, a mystery, unrevealed until its season, in our time, infinity; In our end is our beginning; in our doubt there is believing; in our life, eternity. In our death, a resurrection;at the last, a victory,unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see.

Words © 1986 Hope Publishing Company, 380 S Main Pl, Carol Stream, IL 60188, Natalie Sleeth