
The Forgiveness Bridge
Imagine a bridge spanning a deep chasm, connecting two sides of a beautiful valley. The bridge is strong, capable of withstanding storms and carrying heavy loads. It allows people to cross safely from one side to the other, even in the fiercest weather. This bridge is a gift—a vital connection provided by the valley’s creator to ensure harmony and accessibility for all who need it.
Now picture what happens when someone refuses to use the bridge. Instead of crossing, they carry their resentment, anger, and grievances like heavy stones in their backpack. They try to navigate the chasm themselves, climbing down treacherous slopes and wading through dangerous waters, weighed down by burdens they refuse to release. The journey is exhausting, and they often fail to reach the other side, stranded and isolated by their unwillingness to let go and trust the bridge.
The “Forgiveness Bridge” represents Christ’s call in Colossians 3:13 to bear with one another and forgive as the Lord has forgiven us. Forgiveness is not a suggestion; it is the bridge that Christ Himself built through His sacrifice on the cross. By forgiving us, He has made a way for reconciliation—not just between us and God, but also between us and others.
When we choose to withhold forgiveness, we are like the person burdened by a heavy backpack, refusing to use the bridge. Grudges, bitterness, and anger weigh us down, making the journey of life far more difficult than it needs to be. Refusing to forgive doesn’t harm the person who wronged us as much as it hurts us. It isolates us, robs us of peace, and keeps us from experiencing the joy and freedom Christ intends for us.
On the other hand, when we forgive, we step onto the bridge of grace. The load is lifted, the path becomes clear, and we are free to continue the journey. Forgiveness doesn’t excuse wrongdoing, but it acknowledges that God is the ultimate judge. It trusts Him to handle justice, freeing us to walk in love and reconciliation.
Jesus modeled this forgiveness when He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34), even as He hung on the cross. Just as Christ forgave us while we were still sinners (Romans 5:8), we are called to extend that same grace to others, no matter how difficult it may feel.
In your life, who are you carrying heavy stones of resentment against? What relationship remains broken because you have refused to cross the Forgiveness Bridge? Today, trust the bridge that God has provided. Release your burdens, step forward, and forgive as the Lord forgave you. In doing so, you not only free others but also find freedom and healing for yourself.
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