The Finish Line was Surreal!

Katahdin is this daunting mountain from a distance and her call of intimidation does not disappoint. The climb was strenuous and rocky but such a thrill to summit.

We left about 7:00 am and reached the big brown sign about 11:30. I celebrated with a dozen other thru-hikers. I was the last of the large group to arrive so I got to stand on the sign for the photo – I felt so honored to have that special spot.

Some very special hikers from YWAM hiked to the top as well. These three guys ministered to me in powerful ways throughout my journey from Harpers Ferry. Bamboo, Ungerwhere, and Mountain Light are friends for eternity.

I have attached a photo of Mark Shaeffer, my dear friend who drove all the way from Ohio to pick me up, and RaceWalker, who hiked the last 450 miles of the trail with me.

God is faithful. I am truly overwhelmed by His grace.

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Categories: Uncategorized | 33 Comments

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33 thoughts on “The Finish Line was Surreal!

  1. Dave,
    Thanks for including all of us on this wonderful journey. Can’t wait to have you back at DC and GFC!
    Randy & Candy

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  2. John Mohler

    Congratulations my friend. Thank you for the daily travelogue.

    Sincerely,

    John Mohler

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  3. Congratulations!

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  4. Kurtz

    Excellent product placement with the DC shirt at the summit. Kudos to you!

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    • Greg- the student of DC and XC were the reason for the hike and the school was on my mind and in my prayers as a great source of encouragement. Under my shirt is not a Superman outfit but a heart for God’s grace.

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  5. Ron and Gail Hostetler

    We are THRILLED for you!! Remember that moment in PA when you had to make the decision to go on or go home? We are SO glad you pressed forward and made it to the summit of Katahdin. What a beautiful day. Imagine the thrill it will be when we end our life’s journey and we reach eternity…the summit of our earthly walk with Christ.

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    • Ron and Gail – what a critical time in PA! I look back on those days and praise God for His strength and wisdom at that turning point. Thank you so much for this insightful comment.

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  6. Susan Farmer

    God is faithful!! Praise The Lord for your successful hike. We are proud of you!! Congratulations!! Sulu and Gary

    Sent from my iPhone

    >

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  7. LaVerne Dickey

    Congratulations! I enjoyed reading about your adventures.

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  8. Tim Combs

    Dave, I am so excited for you! What an incredible journey!

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  9. Marion (Taylor) Shute

    Very excited for you! Congratulations!!

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  10. janloyd

    GLORY! GLORY! GLORY! Speechless! God has shown Himself awesome in and through you, Dave. Sweet reunion with your precious Cathy, family, and friends! We are proud! John & Jan đŸ™‚

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  11. Monda and Linda

    To God be the glory. We celebrate your completion. In my mind I have climbed the mountains and wadded the through the streams. And of course… tripped over the roots and rocks. Thank you for sharing this adventure with us. The pictures were awesome. Welcome home!

    Now tell me just one thing…why would you eat a chief salad when you could have had meat and potatoes???

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    • Monda and Linda – I absolutely stuffed myself at lunch and a Chef Salad with crisp lettuce sounded so good – and it was!!! Thanks for sharing my journey.

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  12. What an amazing journey you had, filled with so many blessings from our Lord! It was truly a joy to follow every step through your blog. God is truly faithful!

    Your brother in Christ,
    Todd the Hiker

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  13. Nina

    Congratulations!

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  14. Congratulations Dave! Amazing! I will be on the AT next month (just a small portion). I will think of you when I’m there! I hope to hear more about your adventure someday!

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    • Johnny Lee Phillips – I hope your hike will be a blessing to you as you experience God’s creation in a personal way. Let me know when you get back and maybe we can connect and share some thoughts.

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  15. Sophia blatz

    I am so happy for you to finish

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  16. Rowdy! It is an honor to serve with you man! Be blessed!

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    • Ungerwhere – the honor was truly mine. I was so blessed to hike the trail and your ministry to me was something I will never forget. May God bless you and keep you safe. May He allow our paths to cross again.

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  17. jim

    Well done good and faithful hiker…and servant of the Lord!

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