Scripture:

"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift." Matthew 5:23–24 (NIV)

Devotion:

In war, bridges determine victory. In life, they determine healing. As we began our Bridges series on Sunday, we were reminded that many of life’s breakdowns don’t come from lack of passion—but from lack of reconciliation. Bridges in relationships fall apart when no one is willing to take the first step across.

Jesus made it clear in Matthew 5: restoring relationship is a spiritual priority. He says leave your gift at the altar and go be reconciled. Why? Because broken bridges block spiritual flow. Worship can't rise when bitterness stays.

Someone has to go first. In faith. In humility. In courage. Healing often begins not with a miracle, but with a decision to reach out. And reaching out will cost you. Like Jesus reaching out to touch the leper (Mark 1:40–42), restoring what’s broken means touching what’s painful.

You can’t stay distant and expect healing to come. Reconciliation isn’t clean—it’s costly. But it's worth it. Forgiveness is the wood and nails of every bridge. Like the father in Luke 15, who ran to meet his broken son, we don’t wait for the apology—we build the path home with compassion.

Finally, courage holds it all together. Romans 12:18 reminds us: “Do everything possible on your part to live in peace with everybody.” Sometimes, peace isn’t possible—but obedience always is. And sometimes, being the bridge is the bravest thing you’ll ever do.

Reflection:

Where has offense delayed your destiny? Who do you need to forgive, reach out to, or release today?

You may not control how they respond—but you can choose to build.

Prayer:

Lord, teach me to build bridges, not walls. Give me the courage to go first, the grace to forgive, and the strength to pursue peace. I surrender my pride and pain. Use me to repair what’s been broken and to restore what’s been lost. In Jesus’ name, amen.