In the aftermath of a recent hurricane (Helene), several bridges were destroyed, cutting off communities and isolating people. This reminds us of how crucial bridges are, not just in infrastructure but in relationships. In the church, we’re called to be bridge builders—connecting, encouraging, and uniting one another.
Building strong relationships takes time and effort. Just as a bridge supports travelers, trust and communication supports church members. Jesus modeled this with His disciples, investing three years in their growth. We must be intentional in how we invest in each other’s lives. We must be proactive in making time for meaningful connections.
On the flip side, we must avoid burning bridges through anger, frustration, or gossip. These actions can destroy relationships just like fire or floods can wreck physical bridges. The Bible warns us against harboring anger, as it only leads to division (Genesis 4:3-8). Instead, we should seek forgiveness and reconciliation, as Jesus did with Peter.
Let’s also be careful with our words, using them to build up rather than tear down. Encouragement is like the solid foundation of a strong bridge—helping relationships thrive. So, here’s the challenge: Be a bridge builder! Commit to building strong relationships through love, unity, and trust. Together, we can build something strong that lasts!