Monday, November 7, 2011

BRIDGES OR FENCES

Our pastor had a fabulous message yesterday. It was about bridges and fences.
He reminded us of friendships that may have ended due to a misunderstanding. And how important it is to build bridges to recreate that relationship.
I know in my own life there have been times when someone has hurt my feelings. And in my "human-ness" (is that a word), it is easier to build a fence than a bridge to "reconnect" with each other.
It is often easier to protect ourselves behind a fence, rather than expose our hearts by offering a bridge.
I wonder how many times though when we attempt to build a bridge and learn that person on the other side has erected a very high, impenetrable fence.
What to do now?
That's when you need to hand your hammer and nails over to the Carpenter. You know the One.
Proverbs 6:3 So do this, my son, and deliver yourself; For you have come into the hand of your friend: Go and humble yourself; Plead with your friend.

6 comments:

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

It must take practice because I have to confess that it's difficult to forgive someone who is nasty on purpose. Especially someone you love. I think it's the worst kind of nasty when you know the person is taking life out on you because they know you love them. Anyway, good time to remember that forgiveness starts within. Thanks, Katt!

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

Joy,
I think I wrote this one for myself...I'm often wondering if I'm the one on the other end of the bridge with the saw!!
It's easy to forgive people who love us--and want the best for us. Not so easy to forgive the rest of the world....

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

You're so quiet. Hope everything's okay. Stop by by blog. I have something for you to see.

Carol J. Garvin said...

I was away when you posted this, Katt, but it certainly struck a chord when I finally got to read it!

From an architectural and structural point of view as well, bridges are harder to construct than fences. Even a small bridge over a garden pond is complex for someone like me, so it's no wonder I find it hard to bridge differences and conflict. As humans we seem to prefer the easy way out of any dilemma, and sometimes obedience requires we step out of our comfort zone.

Good thoughts here, Katt. Thanks!

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

Joy,
I did come right over---still waiting for iced tea..where are you?
Hugs
Katt

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

Carol,
I agree about "stepping out of our comfort zone".....sometimes it's pretty difficult!
I've missed you....
Hugs
Katt