I grew up in the shadows of the Great Smoky Mountains, but never availed myself of their trails and beauty. In 1997 while living in FL, I began taking high school grads from youth group on a 2 day backpacking trip. Since I knew nothing about backpacking, my friend in Knoxville, David Bianconi would meet us and keep us on the trail and alive. I began going several times a year until I figured out enough to go it alone. I moved back to Knoxville to do college ministry and have used the mountains regularly as the place to build relationships and encounter God together.
I'm naturally lazy, but something happens when I start out on a trip with friends. The desire to see what's on offer from the top of the mountain kicks in and you don't get the view without making the climb. Hiking is a metaphor for life with me and the verse that stands out the most is Hebrews 12:11:
No discipline is pleasant at first, but painful. Later on however; it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who are trained by it.
I learned that verse on my first hike and as I panted and my legs grew shaky I'd repeat it. It was true. The hike was painful at first but later on around the fire, as we reflected together on all we had endured together, the harvest was there. We just had to stop complaining about it and appreciate it. I found the same holds true for every hard situation I have faced. You don't get the view without making the climb.
I try to get into the mountains at least once a month and still consider myself a novice at hiking and camping.
