Be a Bridge Builder

“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:17-21

Several years ago during a storm, the bridge from Martha’s Vineyard to the mainland was washed out. The islanders were stranded. The people could be ferried off and on the tiny island, but supplies could not. The people were isolated until the bridge could be rebuilt.

Have you ever thought of yourself as a bridge-builder for Jesus Christ? We are all potential “bridge-builders” for Him. It is a call that He issues to all believers. Bridge-building is a ministry that includes reconciliation, reaching out, giving, and sharing so that stranded people may come to know the love of Jesus Christ.

You may think bridge-building is an occupation only reserved for skilled architects, but you are mistaken. Right now you are in the process of becoming an architect for Christ. Each hurt you have suffered, each time you have found victory by trusting Jesus is a completed chapter in the guidebook. None of us can build a bridge unless we personally know the design of the structure.

Your classroom is the life God has given you. Your teacher and employer is the Holy Spirit, and your commission is the world in which you live. Many people live like islands, but deep down inside they long for someone to reach out to them. You may be God’s only bridge of love to them.

“For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.” 1 Corinthians 6:20