Late February, myself, along with a couple of students and our Dean of Students (Ken Moser), embarked on a hiking experience we will not soon forget. We began our 4-hour journey by car to Beaufort, Luxembourg, where we would camp for two nights. It was on a Monday when we made this journey and began our first hike on this day. In total, we hiked 40km, splitting the hike in the space of two days of 15 and 25km, respectively. Fully geared with different layers of clothing, hiking shoes and trekking poles, we began this hiking adventure. For some of us this was a new experience and not knowing what to expect, we witnessed the towering rock formations, steep hills and leafy trails of the rocky mountain. This was a unique experience for us, because along the way, we gazed in awe of the waterfalls, the medieval villages and castles. What was even more exciting was that it will be recorded in our individual lives that we hiked between two countries (Luxembourg and Germany). This was possible because we hiked from Beaufort (Luxembourg) to Bollendorf (a German municipality near the Luxembourg border).
Reflecting on this experience, I can say this was refreshing and an escape from the bustles of life. The physical challenges that came with the hiking and the ability to follow through gave me a sense of accomplishment. More importantly, looking at the nature and beautiful landscapes renewed my general revelation about God. Furthermore, the pleasant experience of meeting other hikers while on the trail, gave a soothing feeling. Not to even talk of the camping experience that strengthened the relationship with my fellow theologians as well as getting to meet new people. Overall, this hiking and camping trip, left an indelible mark in my heart of the beauty of the creation of God as well as the importance of fellowship, relationship, and communion.
Fortune (Nigeria), MDiv Student - March 2024
