22. Jul 2025

Birštonas - Alytus

Photo 1: It may seem to be the end of the road, but every pilgrim knows that it will continue on the other side of the hill, and at the end of the road there will be another path that will lead to another stretch and will take you to another day and another journey. It never ends.

Markus knew he was going to die. He was just not sure what might be there after. He was a mater-of-fact person who grew up without religious leanings. For a number of years his family came to our church in Moosburg. We had some talks. But his mind struggled to grasp a spiritual reality. Shortly before I left Germany to start the Snail-Trail walk in Estonia, his son contacted me whether I could come and talk with his dad one more time. I gladly went. God gave grace, and Markus accepted it. There were tears. We celebrated communion. Both his sons were there and could pray with their dad. It was a special moment.

Today towards noon I received the news that Markus had breathed his last breath early in the morning. He now knows that the road does not end at the crest of a hill. No, it was at the crest of a hill called Golgatha where Jesus broke open the Way, which is the Truth and the Life that brings us to the Father. The hand that took the nail for Markus on that rugged cross, took his when that last breath left his lungs. The Good Shepherd led his lamb through the shadows of death... and brought him home to the Father. Amazing grace! It is for everyone who would come and receive it. At the end of his road, Markus found that connecting straight and narrow path that led to a new day. His journey continues...

Photo 2: My day started in Birštonas walking along the Nemunas River.

Photo 3: I had a number of hills today going up and down the river valley, for a total of 1087 altimeters.

Photo 4: The bridge that crosses the river to the city of Alytus. I arrived at my destination before the rain came.

Photo 5: The day ended with a very nice, peaceful walk along the river. In between there was one challenging and adventurous stretch... not the normal St. James Way, but shorter. I had combined two stages for 40 km and wanted to cut off a big corner. I made it... as always with God's help!