The Burdens I Carried
“Cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you.” — Psalm 55:22
One of the most meaningful moments for many pilgrims on the Camino occurs at a place called Cruz de Ferro—the highest point on the Camino, sitting at about 5,000 feet above sea level.
When you arrive, you see a tall pole—about 16 feet high—with a small cross at the top. Around it is a large mound of rocks and various other items, piled several feet high.
Located a little over two-thirds of the way to Santiago, Cruz de Ferro is a place where pilgrims leave behind objects that symbolize burdens they want to release. For most, it’s a rock or stone—representing something they want to move beyond or no longer give power to. For others, it’s jewelry, clothing, or meaningful keepsakes.
Tomorrow, when I arrive at Cruz de Ferro, I will be laying down five specific items that I’ve carried with me all the way from the United States.
The first is a USB drive.
It contains the written burdens from members of my church—things they wrote down on 3×5 cards when I invited them to share what they wanted to let go of. Over 100 people responded. I am carrying these burdens in digital form on their behalf, with the prayer that God would meet each one of them in a sustaining, freeing way.
The second item is a cross.
It was given to me by a man I deeply respect—the pastor who served at Palm West before I arrived. He’s a man of humility, integrity, and faithful devotion to Jesus across nearly 50 years of ministry. Not long after retirement, both he and his wife were diagnosed with serious health issues. Pastor Bruce loved hiking, and when I told him I was walking the Camino, he was so happy for me. I asked if he had anything he’d like me to carry. He gave me a large metal cross. I’ve carried it now for over 350 miles, and tomorrow I’ll lay it down as I pray for him and his wife.
The third item is a keychain with the verse Philippians 4:13.
It was given to me by someone who has become very dear to me. This person went through an incredibly painful season, but during that time they leaned into the Lord in a new and life-changing way. Their suffering became a gateway to intimacy with God. When they heard about my journey, they gently asked if I would carry the keychain and lay it down at Cruz de Ferro. It symbolized both the hardship and the beauty of that chapter in their life. I said yes without hesitation.
The fourth item is a piece of jewelry that belonged to my wife.
It was simple, unassuming—and her favorite for many years. She always looked beautiful wearing it. I chose to carry this in her memory. Stephanie and I had an amazing life together. We loved deeply. She brought me such joy and laughter. Laying this necklace down is my way of acknowledging, with gratitude, the life we shared. It also represents my intention to begin moving forward with greater purpose. I will never forget her. I will always be grateful for her. I look forward to seeing her again on the other side. Yet, it’s time to move from a season of mourning into a new reality—with hope and expectation for what’s ahead.
The final item I’m laying down is a key.
It symbolizes access to unknown paths and the belief that God alone holds the key to what comes next. In laying it down, I’m inviting Him to unlock what needs to open and to keep shut what should remain closed. My times—and my future—are fully surrendered to Him (Psalm 31:15; 143:8).
Tomorrow marks Day 21 on the Camino. It has been a deeply moving experience—stretching me mentally and physically. But my soul is alive. And when I rise in the morning, I will walk with anticipation and resolve, ready to lay down these burdens—both mine and those of people I love.
Even if you’re not walking the Camino, you can still lay down your burdens. Bow your head. Give them to God in prayer. Or find something tangible—a token that represents what you’re ready to release.
Regardless, God wants you to be free. Whatever you’re carrying that’s weighing you down or holding you back, you can give it to Him—because He will sustain you.
