The Conversation: Bearing His Cross

The Conversation: Man Takes a Cross-Country Journey for God

ByABC News
August 13, 2010, 9:40 AM

Aug. 13, 2010— -- On Wednesday, 25-year old Tobiah Steinmetz arrived back home after the trip of a lifetime. Steinmetz spent the previous 85 days walking across America - from Los Angeles, CA, to Columbia, SC - carrying an 8-foot, 40-lb cross on his shoulders.

In today's Conversation, ABC News' Dan Harris talks to Steinmetz about his trek and the surprises he found along the way.

With only his sneakers, a military pack and his iPod, Steinmetz set off on May 18th expecting he would spend many days going hungry and many nights sleeping outdoors. But thanks to the kindness of strangers he met along the way, he never missed a meal and was able to sleep in hotels or private homes every night.

"It was such an amazing time for ministry to continuously be praying with people and continuously be sharing my faith," he said.

Steinmetz was compelled to take the trip when, during a church service, he was overwhelmed with the feeling that God wanted him to walk across the country. And with a leap of faith, he bought a one-way ticket to Los Angeles where he began his adventure.

"I told the Lord, 'if I don't make it back to South Carolina, at least I'll be with you.'" Steinmetz said. "I know that it seems extreme but that's really how I felt."

Watch today's Conversation for more on Steinmetz's inspirational journey.

Click here to watch more from the Conversation series.

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