Describing faith as a hike may seem strange, but faith was never meant to be a cakewalk. Living a life of faith as a Christian can be compared to hiking those mountain trails. It requires commitment to keep going., for the trail will have its challenges. But there will be many wonderful experiences if we persevere.

The Australian State of Tasmania offers some spectacular trails for hikers. I have just been reading about one called The Frenchman’s Cap Trail which is a multiday hike of 46km. It is located in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park in the central southwest region of Tasmania. It includes – “Buttongrass plains, lush rain forest, alpine lakes and rugged tors with views from coast to plateau” Ref. https://slowerhiking.com >frenchmans-cap-tasmania>

As I think about the Christian life, I’m reminded that it is similar to walking a trail. There are times of difficulty when the terrain is hard. Like a hiker, we need backup supplies to keep going for the trail can be long. Fitness is required too, as there will be times of testing on the trail of life. But our hike of faith will be rewarded.

Then there are the National Park Rangers that do so much work in maintaining trails. Their work is invaluable and includes directional signs, provision of huts and campsites. The trail is also kept safe and the environment protected.

As we end another year and celebrate the birth of Jesus, it’s reassuring to know that the trail of life is already prepared. With a new year beginning we simply keep going on the hike of faith.