Building Bridges of Love
"Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing."1
Since we all have a basic need for unity and connection, today's passage is likely to resonate deeply. Calling us to be "sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble" these two verses exhort us to bless others rather than insult them or "return evil for evil." The passage is an invitation to build bridges of love and understanding in a world that often seems divided.
A few days ago we talked about faith as a bridge that connects us to God's promises. Let's use another analogy of a bridge today, this time imagining your life as a way to connect with others to overcome misunderstandings and resentment. So when insults are hurled at you, decide not to retaliate. Rather, giving a blessing can lead to reconciliation.
Building bridges means choosing love over hate, forgiveness over resentment, and kindness over cruelty. Our purpose as Christians is not to win in conflicts, but to inherit God's blessings and extend them to others. So, let's try to reflect the love of Christ and offer healing and unity to those around us.
Suggested Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, this day I want to ask you for a sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble heart so that I can reflect your love to others. Help me to be kind at all times, regardless of the circumstances. Help me to always choose love over hate, forgiveness over resentment, and kindness over cruelty. I ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.
1. 1 Peter 3:8-9.
Today's Encounter was written by: Rosina N.
All articles on this website are written by
Richard (Dick) Innes unless otherwise stated.