When It’s Time to Cross the Bridge
Well, now, friend, pull up that ol’ rocker on this ol’ front porch before the lil’ barn cat over yonder claims it. Seems folks these days can get sideways quicker than an ol’ goat on a tin roof, and before long, everybody's stompin’ around and snortin’ over something they barely recall. Jacob plum knew a thing or two about that sort of thing. He'd deceived his father and taken the blessin’ intended for Esau. Esau's anger burned so hot that Jacob plum fled for his life (Genesis27:41-45).
Years passed, families grew, but distance doesn't always heal a wound. Sometimes it just gives resentment room to stretch out and get mighty comfortable. Then came the day Jacob had to plum face Esau. He approached humbly. And Esau ran to him, embraced him, and they wept (Genesis 33:3-4).
That there’s reconciliation. It don’t mean the hurt never happened. It sho’-nuff’ means the hurt don't get to steer tomorrow. Jesus taught that if you remember someone has somethin’ against you, go and seek reconciliation first (Matthew 5:23-24). Romans 12:18 reminds us, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably.
Notice that. You tend your side of the bridge. You can't force the crossin’, but you can keep your end from rottin’ out. And Proverbs 19:11 adds, it’s downright to one's glory to overlook an offense.
Sometimes spiritual maturity looks less like winnin’ and more like refusin’ to keep right on shovelin’.
Father, show me where pride or old hurt has made itself at home in me. Give me the courage to step toward peace where I can, the wisdom to set healthy boundaries where needed, and the grace to forgive as you've forgiven me. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Now, friend, straighten that ol’ porch cushion and head on down the road with your heart a little lighter. Don't be luggin’ yesterday's squabbles around like a lil’ ol’ raccoon haulin’ a pie tin through the woods, rattlin’ every step of the way. A grudge might feel real powerful, but it's about as useful as a screen door on a chicken coop in a thunderstorm. You may not make someone meet you halfway, but you sho’-nuff’ can make sure your end is open and steady. So, leave that ol’ gate unlatched. Sometimes the shortest road home is plum the first step across the bridge.
With joy,
Gwen
