17 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. 18 For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. 19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household.
(Ephesians 2:17-19)
There are two main definitions of the word WAY in the dictionary. The first is a method, style, or manner of doing something. The second is a road, track, path, or street for traveling along. When I think of Jesus as the Way, both definitions seem appropriate. There is a distinct course of action that Christians are meant to follow: love God and love your neighbor, ALL of your neighbors, no matter how different you are. All are members of his household.
When I think of the second definition, I think of Al’s and my Christian pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago in Spain, known as the Way of Saint James. We spent 5 weeks walking 740 kilometers joining pilgrims from all over the world. We experienced many types of ways during the journey: dirt paths, paved roads, city streets, cobbled walkways, steep climbs, and narrow ruts through fields. We learned a lot during this experience about the vastness of God’s love as we met foreigners and strangers who became our compatriots. We experienced numerous gifts from people looking out for us along the way such as affordable food and shelter, help with sore feet, and directions. We were able to give help and comfort to others too. Al always carried extra water and more than once we were come upon by weary and thirsty travelers asking whether he was the americano with extra water. I went to a Spanish doctor with an Australian with blistered feet to translate for her. We attended Pilgrim masses where everyone was welcome – no matter what religion or nationality. On this journey we experienced the way of Jesus physically and emotionally.
As we think of Jesus as Way, let us remember that the only way to peace and love in this world is to follow a path where we get to know others, treat them with respect, and follow Jesus’ lead in caring for all our fellow travelers.
Sue Flynn
