Bridge Building

Bridge Building

God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.

Matthew 5:9

Years ago, a single conversation helped correct a misunderstanding between two professionals within my community.

All told, it took five minutes from my day. I gained nothing from it. I simply noticed the misunderstanding unfolding and quietly approached one of the individuals, Bruce, with a quick explanation and a suggestion that he extend a lunch invitation to the other person. He listened to my advice, and over lunch the misunderstanding was smoothed out. Bruce has ended up working closely with the other person on several projects in the years since that conversation.

I thought nothing more of it, and honestly, I forgot all about it until I started a new job. I felt off kilter and uncertain that first week as I struggled to learn the new software, figure out the phone system, and remember names of my new coworkers. I didn’t know it yet, but Bruce was a friend of my new boss and a person with influence in my new organization. It wasn’t until after the third person (the human resources manager, no less) swung by my office that first week to mention that Bruce had been raving about me during a recent lunch that I really stopped to think.

I was suddenly reaping the benefit of my simple words, my willingness to step forward as a peacemaker all those years ago, at just the moment when I felt a little vulnerable and exposed. As the third person left my office that day, I smiled secretly as I turned back to my work. I thanked Jesus for the great wisdom contained in Scripture and for so clearly being with me as I started this new job.

In a world filled with instigators and individuals who fan the flames of controversy, we need peacemakers. We need people who encourage others to seek out common ground, who build bridges, who build community.

—Julie

— Today’s Act of Kindness —

Pray that God would give you eyes to see how you can serve as a peacemaker. The next time you notice a conflict arise, however small, gently suggest steps toward reconciliation.