by Victoria Heinecke

When Christ walks with us, we are all lifted up.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”
Hebrews 10:24-25 New International Version

My cousins and I met a woman on the Incline this year. She was traveling solo and joined us as we hiked. We had our Chicago roots in common and shared all sorts of stories and experiences as we climbed. Our new friend carried a coin inscribed with the name of a 19-year-old soldier who was killed in action in Afghanistan. Her relationship with his family is bound with a mutual love and fidelity, and through that relationship she has raised awareness for the creation of a retreat for combat veterans. At the same time, she is improving her fitness and strength to trek the 100 mile trip she makes each year for the Lodge.

When we reached the top of the steps, she took several photos of the mountains with the coin in the foreground. She told us she would never have accomplished the trek without the inspiration of a family she loves.

Because of Alec’s sacrifice, a sanctuary has been created and a woman is continuing to be a better version of herself every day.

“Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”
Hebrews 13:1-2 New International Version

There’s a hymn whose lyrics read, in part: “And they’ll know we are Christians by our love.” When we walk together, hand in hand and side by side, Christ walks with us and there’s no room for the enemy to get in. Let us remember to show hospitality to both strangers and friends.

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.“
Matthew 18:20 New International Version

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado