There is a saying that goes, "Off to the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul." There is much truth in that saying, as one can clearly see the attributes of God in creation. The beauty of nature points to the majesty of God in numerous and undeniable ways. But there are other things I like about spending time in the woods: building friendships!
A few months ago, John Elmore (BCE Board Member), Brian Taylor (Student/Board Member) and I (Richard Hodges, Professor) went on a three day hike on the Appalachian Trail. We began at Bland, VA and ended up at Pearisburg, VA, which was a hike of approximately 30 miles.
A few months ago, John Elmore (BCE Board Member), Brian Taylor (Student/Board Member) and I (Richard Hodges, Professor) went on a three day hike on the Appalachian Trail. We began at Bland, VA and ended up at Pearisburg, VA, which was a hike of approximately 30 miles.
While the weather proved difficult (rain, ice, snow, and 32 degree weather), the experience was fantastic. We talked about our walk with God as men, and how God was using us in the congregations we serve. We talked about Scripture, God, the world we live in, and the bright future of BCE. I left the experience physically exhausted, but spiritually uplifted.
Upon reflection of the hike, I have concluded that Christian friendships are the best. You can share your struggles and joys to sympathetic ears. You can learn much about yourself as you hear how God moves in the lives and the experiences of others. You can share dreams and visions and plans and seek the prayers of others as you try to be sensitive to God's leading in your life.
Upon reflection of the hike, I have concluded that Christian friendships are the best. You can share your struggles and joys to sympathetic ears. You can learn much about yourself as you hear how God moves in the lives and the experiences of others. You can share dreams and visions and plans and seek the prayers of others as you try to be sensitive to God's leading in your life.
I am thankful for BCE and how she continues to bring people together in so many ways. Not just in the classroom setting, but bringing people together in ways that allow us to share life with one another. Building lasting relationships is vital to any walk with God, and I am thankful for these two brothers-in-Christ!
Richard Hodges
BCE Professor
Richard Hodges
BCE Professor