“When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and elders, to whom they reported everything God had done through them.” Acts 15:4 (NIV)
I think bridges are beautiful. My husband found a path off the highway one day and since we had some extra time, we drove down around to investigate. It wasn’t just a path. It was a park with a pond and several old, historical bridges. Not the normal boring bridges of today; but beautiful, historical bridges with character. And that got me thinking…
Every day I wake up and ask God to use me in the lives of those He wants to reach, whatever that looks like. A helping hand at the store for someone who just can’t reach. An understanding smile or better yet a hug when another is having a bad day. I don’t care what it looks like – I just want to be available with a heart that is always looking for ways to bless those God deliberately puts in my path.
As a result of that prayer, I’ve had the privilege of meeting some of the most amazing people. That’s when God gave me the most beautiful mental image… a bridge.
A bridge is something which connects one object to another object, a way for people to safely go from one place to another. A bridge has to be sturdy. Sure, there are swaying bridges and decaying bridges, but those are worn out from years of exposure to elements and neglect. Those aren’t functional and they don’t get the job done.
I want to be that someone who connects a person with the Someone who can change their life. I want to introduce others to my Heavenly Father and explain why I can trust Him in faith and share with them all the wonderful things He’s done for me and that He’s waiting to do even more wonderful things for them. I want to have the chance to show just how personal my Savior is; yet how strong and protective and capable He is. When this world is in chaos, He’s an anchor because He already knows the future… and better yet, already has the answer in place.
Being a well-built bridge capable of fulfilling my purpose of transporting people safely across requires time. Relationships that are comfortable enough to share personally also require time. My desire is to live my life in such a way that those God puts in my path are drawn to Him and ask me why. I want to soak in His word, the Bible, enough so that when they ask me hard questions, I can answer them with confidence using His words. I want to live my life in such a way that I don’t embarrass the One whom I represent – authentically exposing my flaws while continuing to change those things God asks me to change.
I want to be a bridge. Not just any bridge, but one that God will greet when I meet Him face to face one day with, “Well done my good and faithful servant. You were a beautiful bridge.”
© Cheri Swalwell 2017